Does turmeric have any proven health benefits?

Thought effective for a wide range of symptoms, turmeric has shown anti-inflammatory properties in studies, according to WebMD. Turmeric root is used extensively to treat a variety of health conditions.

Turmeric root decreases pain and swelling, and it proved in a study to be as effective as ibuprofen in the treatment of osteoarthritis. The root is also used to treat gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, heartburn and loss of appetite. Turmeric is applied to the skin to treat pain, ringworm, leech bites and inflammatory diseases, explains WebMD. The edible root is also the main ingredient in curry and used to flavor and color cheeses, butters and mustards.