Turmeric is the root of a plant.  The dried root is ground to form the turmeric powder. Turmeric is used by Indian women during every wash -  an age old beauty treatment.  Regular application of turmeric from a very young age is considered to reduce hair growth in women, so that they have smooth skin. It serves as a disinfectant.  Turmeric acts as an antiseptic and anticoagulent for wounds.