Turmeric, whose scientific name Curcuma longa, is a perennial plant native to the Indian subcontinent and South-East Asia. Belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, it is closely related to ginger and is known for its bright orangey-yellow rhizome. Turmeric is widely cultivated for its culinary uses, particularly in spice blends such as curry powder, and is renowned for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As well as its known health benefits, turmeric has applications in textile dyeing, thanks to its distinctive colour, and in cosmetics for skin care products.