Long before anyone measured its constituents, turmeric was valued for one obvious quality: its colour.
A dye and a colouring
Turmeric has been used to dye cloth yellow, and anyone who has cooked with it knows how readily it stains. Its main colouring compound, curcumin, is authorised in the European Union as a food colour under the number E100.
Colour in the names
The classical synonyms record the same quality. Kanchani means golden and Pita means yellow, as the names guide explains, and Daruharidra earns its name from wood of a similar colour.
Colour is not identity
A yellow powder is not necessarily turmeric, and turmeric is not the only yellow plant. The species name on the label settles what is in the jar.
On the label
Harida Capsules name Curcuma longa rhizome powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is turmeric used as a dye?
Yes. It has long been used to colour cloth and food yellow.
What is E100?
The EU number for curcumin as a food colour.
What does Kanchani mean?
Golden, one of the classical names for Haridra.
This article is for educational purposes and describes the classical Ayurvedic record. The products mentioned are food supplements, not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Take them under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
