The substance known as turmeric is the under-ground stem of a plant
which grows in a wild state in some parts of China and India. It emits
a strong, but pleasant odor, and its taste is peppery, aromatic and
bitter at the same time. The plant, however, is cultivated in Java
and Bengal; the latter country producing the better quality. Although
turmeric is rich in coloring matter, its want of permanence is a
hindrance to it. It is generally sold in powder, ground down very fine.
It should be quite dry; if damp, it loses its color, turns a dull
yellowish brown, and dyes flat shades. A good turmeric should show
a beautiful lustre. It enters into a majority of the dark colors in
feather dyeing, and, although used as a body for colors only, a great
deal depends upon it as to the result.