Published Paper Details:

Curcuma longa L., a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), holds a significant place in traditional medicine for treating diverse ailments. Its high curcumin content has made Indian turmeric particularly renowned globally. The rhizomes of Curcuma longa, commonly known as Haldi or Turmeric, play a crucial role. These rhizomes, which are horizontal underground stems, give rise to both shoots and roots. Turmeric is rich in fat-soluble, polyphenolic pigments known as curcuminoids, among which curcumin (deferulolyl methane) is the predominant compound responsible for the vibrant yellow color seen in Indian curries. Other curcuminoids include demethoxy curcumin and bisdemethoxy curcumin. Often referred to as the 'Indian saffron,' turmeric also boasts natural antiseptic properties. With its considerable nutritive and medicinal value, turmeric contains various phytochemical constituents, which attribute to its status as a medicinal plant. The presence of non-nutritive plant chemicals (phytochemical constituents) underscores its disease-preventive potential. In its powdered form, turmeric serves not only as a spice, lending flavor to dishes, but also as a medicinal ingredient, offering a range of significant benefits. Numerous studies have explored various aspects of the plant, including its morphology, phytochemical profiles across all parts of the plant, and other noteworthy characteristics, which have been meticulously documented. This paper endeavors to comprehensively review the applications, botanical description, taxonomical classification, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities associated with turmeric, while also presenting current research trends in this field.