Question

Which of the following palnt is both, a spice as well as a dye?

• A. Indigo
• B. Turmeric
• C. Catechu
• D. Clove

Answer 1

The correct option is B Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. Plants are gathered annually for their rhizomes, and propagated from some of those rhizomes in the following season. When not used fresh, the rhizomes are boiled for about 30-45 minutes and then dried in hot ovens, after which they are ground into a deep-orange-yellow powder commonly used as a spice in Indian cuisine and curries, for dyeing and to impart colour to mustard condiments.

One active ingredient is 'curcumin', which has a distinctly earthy, slightly bitter, slightly hot peppery flavour and a mustardy smell. Thus, option B is correct.

Catechu is an extract of Acacia used variously as a food additive, astringent, tannin and dye. It is not used as spice. Thus, option C is wrong.

Clove is used as spice and not as dye. Thus, option D is wrong.

Indigo is used as dye and not as spice. Thus, option A is wrong.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.