Turmeric comes from a plant that is a part of the ginger family. Typically, the part of the plant known as the rhizome is what is used in both medicinal and culinary applications. Traditionally, the rhizome is heated and then made into a powder, the spice that is often used to add some zing to a variety of dishes. But, while the culinary uses of turmeric are undeniable, there are many purported health benefits to the spice as well. For instance, turmeric blood thinner applications are being explored that might prove to be valuable in those at risk for blood clots or with illnesses that cause thickened blood.