Turmeric has been used for thousands of years as both a spice and medicinal herb. Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of the curcuma longa plant, which is a perennial in the Ginger family. It has a pungent, bitter flavor. The Turmeric rhizome's flesh is yellow, orange yellow or reddish-yellow in color. The color of ground dry turmeric is a bright yellow-orange which is very smooth and fine. Curcumin, is a pigment found in turmeric that not only gives its characteristic bright hue, but also has a range of health benefits. These include antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Today, Turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression and many others.