Turmeric is a vibrantly colored spice, sometimes called Indian saffron, which grows naturally in southeastern Asia and has been used medicinally and in Indian cuisine for centuries. Turmeric’s “claim to fame” is that it contains a powerful antioxidant called curcumin, which gives it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.1

Curcumin might reduce the risk of several diseases, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.1 The majority of studies have been done in animals or in vitro (human cells in Petri dishes). Few studies have been conducted in humans, so the health benefits of turmeric are still uncertain.2

Turmeric spices and supplements are made from the rhizome (root) of the plant, which are ground up. Read on to learn about turmeric, including its possible health benefits, side effects, and more.