Homonym: Curcuma Longa (Turmeric)
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a flowering plant belonging to the ginger family. It is native to South Asia and is widely cultivated for its rhizomes, which are ground into a bright yellow powder used as a spice and coloring agent in cooking. Turmeric has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Ayurveda.
The active compound in turmeric, called curcumin, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is not only popular in culinary applications but also in dietary supplements and herbal remedies, contributing to its growing recognition in modern health practices.