kurkuma

Turmeric's English name comes from Medieval Latin terra merita (deserving earth) or from French terre-mérite. The 'turmeric' spelling emerged from confusion with the spice's appearance.

The spice itself comes from South Asia, where it's been used for 4,000 years. Sanskrit called it haridrā; Hindi calls it haldi. Arabic traders called it kurkum, from which we get 'curcumin.'

Turmeric gives curry its yellow color and mustard its vibrancy. Beyond cuisine, it's used in Hindu rituals, Ayurvedic medicine, and Buddhist robes.

The 21st century brought 'golden milk lattes' and turmeric supplements. The ancient spice became a wellness fad, with claims that often outpace science.