Turmeric, known as "haldi" in Indic languages, is a vibrant yellow spice derived from the rhizome of the Curcuma longa plant, a member of the ginger family, and is widely used in cooking, traditional medicine, and religious ceremonies, particularly in India and Southeast Asia.  Turmeric has been put to use as a foodstuff, cosmetic, and medicine. It is widely used as a spice in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. It lends curry its distinctive yellow color and flavor. It is used as a coloring agent in cheese, butter, and other foods colorful plant-based foods, turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage.” Diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with prevention of medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease.