zedoary [key], name for a perennial herb (Curcuma zedoaria) of the Zingiberaceae (ginger family) and for a spice consisting of its dried and pulverized aromatic rhizome. The plant, related to turmeric and to the East Indian arrowroot, is native to and principally cultivated in India. It is used as a condiment, as a flavoring for liqueurs and bitters, in perfumery, and medicinally as a carminative and stimulant. Zedoary is classified in the division Magnoliophyta, class Liliopsida, order Zingiberales, family Zingiberaceae.
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