Turmeric Extract Standardized to 95% Curcumin Turmeric powder, a bright yellow spice from the rhizome of the Curcuma longa plant, has a long history of traditional Ayurvedic usage. Turmeric promotes the flow of bile from the liver. Bile is one vehicle the body uses to excrete fat-soluble toxins. Curcumin, a potent antioxidant, is believed to be the most bioactive and soothing portion of the herb turmeric.