English: black zedoary, Black curcuma
Sanskrit: Rajani, Nishaa, Nishi, Raatri
Hindi: Kali Haldi, Nar Kachura, Krishna Kedar
Tamil: Karimanchal
Malayalam: Karimanjal
It is a perennial herb, erect, like any other Curcuma family, except for the reddish-brownish line at the center part of the leaf, grows up to 2 feet, leaves are long, lance-shaped, tapered on both ends, up to 50 cm long and 8 cm wide, rhizome is the useful plant part, which is like white turmeric except the bluish color, bluish-black with a pungent smell, aromatic, hot bitter.
Leaf Arrangement
| Shape-lanceolate | Margin-Entire | Venation-parallel |
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Useful plant parts:
Rhizomes, leaves
Medicinal uses:
To treat pneumonia, cough, cold, fever, asthma, migraine, poison bites, stomach pain, toothache, vomiting, and menstrual disorders. (No scientific proof).
Black Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma caesia, is a lesser-known variety of turmeric with significant medicinal properties according to Ayurveda. Here are some of the Ayurvedic uses of Black Turmeric:
1. Anti-inflammatory: It is believed to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
2. Digestive Health: Ayurveda suggests that Black Turmeric can aid digestion, relieve flatulence, and treat gastrointestinal disorders.
3. Respiratory Conditions: It may be used to address respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.
4. Skin Disorders: Black Turmeric is utilized in Ayurvedic skincare for conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
5. Antibacterial and Antifungal: It’s believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, potentially aiding in the treatment of infections.
6. Wound Healing: It’s used topically for its potential to speed up wound healing.
7. Menstrual Disorders: Ayurvedic practitioners sometimes recommend Black Turmeric to manage menstrual irregularities and associated discomfort.
8. Antioxidant Properties: It’s believed to be rich in antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals and oxidative stress.
9. Liver Support: Ayurveda suggests that Black Turmeric can support liver health and promote detoxification.
10. Nervous System Support: It may be used to strengthen the nervous system, potentially benefiting conditions related to nerve disorders.
11. Mental Well-being: Some traditional uses indicate that it may have calming properties, potentially helping with stress and anxiety.
12. Anti-cancer Properties: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that compounds in Black Turmeric may have anti-cancer potential.
As with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to use Black Turmeric under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider. Individual responses to herbs can vary, so it’s important to approach any herbal remedy with caution and under professional guidance. Furthermore, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is ongoing, so its use should be based on traditional knowledge and expert advice.
Chemical contents:
Borneol, bornyl acetate, and curcumene
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