Using Turmeric in Cooking - as part of the expert series by GeoBeats. Turmeric is a yellow powder that is derived from the dried turmeric root. And sometimes we also use fresh turmeric which is available seasonally in Indian grocery stores. But the dried turmeric powder is what is commonly referred to as turmeric. It is wonderful in adding a beautiful yellowish golden color to most curries. And what a lot of people do not realize is that it also has medicinal properties. So it helps you digest the food, it helps heal the body from within and it makes the curry look pretty. Turmeric is also used in other ways like: a paste of turmeric and water, if applied to a cut, has antiseptic properties. And if you apply a paste of turmeric and water to your face it clears the complexion and adds a beautiful glow to the skin. So turmeric has a lot of wonderful uses that go beyond cooking in Indian food.