Curcuma longa
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A widely cultivated tropical plant native to India, characterized by yellow flowers and a large, aromatic, deep yellow rhizome (underground stem). This plant is the source of both a culinary condiment and a yellow dye.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The spice turmeric is derived from the dried rhizome of Curcuma longa.
- Farmers in Southeast Asia cultivate Curcuma longa for both its culinary and medicinal uses.
Advanced Usage
- In botanical/ scientific contexts: The term is used as the formal botanical (Latin) name to specify this particular species within the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), distinguishing it from other species.
- The study focused on the anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from Curcuma longa.
Variants and Related Words
- Turmeric (n): The common name for the spice powder made from the dried and ground rhizome of .
- Turmeric is a key ingredient in curry powder.
- Curcumin (n): The principal curcuminoid and the main bioactive compound found in , responsible for its vibrant yellow color.
- Curcumin is studied for its potential health benefits.
Synonyms
- Turmeric plant: A common synonym referring to the plant itself.
- Indian saffron: A term sometimes used to describe turmeric, alluding to its color, though it is not related to true saffron.
Related Phrases/Compounds
- Turmeric rhizome: Specifically refers to the underground stem of the plant.
- The fresh turmeric rhizome has a more pungent aroma than the dried powder.
- Curcuma genus: Refers to the broader group of plants to which belongs.
- Several species in the Curcuma genus are used in traditional medicine.
Noun
- widely cultivated tropical plant of India having yellow flowers and a large aromatic deep yellow rhizome; source of a condiment and a yellow dye