Have you heard of turmeric [TOO-mer-ick]? It’s the main spice in curry and is commonly found in Asian, Indian, Pakistani and Persian cuisine. Besides adding flavor and color to dishes, this yellow-tinted wonder has helpful medicinal properties. Turmeric has been used to reduce stress, extinguish heartburn, aid the digestive system and lessen inflammation.

What makes this spice beneficial to your health? Turmeric derives its distinctive color and health benefits from a chemical called curcumin [cur-COO-min], which contains antioxidants that lessen inflammation throughout the body. One study found turmeric supplements worked as well as ibuprofen to reduce pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Thanks to these anti-inflammatory properties, researchers say turmeric could help ease the pain of cancer patients.

Turmeric is sold at most grocery stores, and there are many ways to add the spice to your everyday diet. At breakfast, use it to pep-up scrambled eggs. The spice’s tart flavor works well when paired with black pepper and salt. For lunch and dinner, take a page from the Persian cookbook and pair turmeric with garlic, salt, pepper and cinnamon to season chicken. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, brew a pot of turmeric tea. Add one teaspoon of turmeric to four cups of boiled water. Steep for 10 minutes, and then strain the tea. Add lemon or honey to sweeten.

Turmeric supplements are available, but talk to your doctor before adding one to your diet, as it may negatively interact with some medications.

Tap into the potential powers of turmeric and see if the colorful spice spices up your lifestyle.