Best Diabetic Meal Plans TURMERIC A native of South Asia turmeric is hailed for its culinary and medical benefits since ancient times. The root or rhizome of Curcuma long is a perennial plant of the ginger family. The prime constituent of this herb is curcumin that renders the dark orange-yellow color, slightly bitter and hot taste and the mustard-like aroma to this spice. It is a highly acclaimed spice and is used extensively in cooking, because of its taste and exotic fragrance as an effective coloring. Turmeric has immense therapeutic and medicinal benefits. This rhizome is packed with healing benefits and medicinal properties that help in treating diseases like allergies aches, infections, inflammations, indigestion, and diabetes