1 The pigment that gives turmeric its yellow-orange color, curcumin is the active ingredient behind many of the emerging health benefits. 2  Curcumin is most known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, and it may be able to provide safe, natural pain relief, provided it is absorbed.urcumin -- the pigment that gives turmeric its yellow-orange color -- is the active ingredient behind many of the emerging health benefits… A Powerful Natural Anti-Inflammatory Curcumin is most known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties.