top of page

The History, Health Benefits, Origin and Culinary Uses of Turmeric

Turmeric is a plant that normally grows about three feet tall, and issues grassy-looking leaves with yellow-green flowers. It is most often found in rainy, tropical climates like those found in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. It is closely related to the ginger plant, and it even resembles ginger in appearance. About 80% of the total global production of turmeric comes from India, although there are many other countries that grow lesser quantities of the plant, notably Pakistan, the Philippines, China, Korea, Japan, and Central America. In addition to its many culinary uses, it is also often used to create a yellow-colored dye, and it has a number of health benefits that are being researched heavily in modern times.


History and origins of turmeric