What is turmeric powder?

Turmeric powder comes from the turmeric plant and is used for spicing food or for medicine, depending on the part of the plant being ground, says WebMD. The root is more conventionally used for medicines that treat heartburn, arthritis, stomach ailments, jaundice, liver and gallbladder problems, and inflammation.

Although turmeric is often used for gallbladder problems, it can actually make gallbladder problems worse, warns WebMD. Turmeric may lower blood sugar, so people with diabetes need to be careful when ingesting turmeric to avoid blood sugar that is too low. People who take medicine that reduces blood clotting should be careful of taking turmeric, because it can reduce blood's ability to clot.