BOTANICAL NAME: Curcuma aromatica
FAMILY: Zingiberaceae
SYNONYMS:
Sanskrit – Vanaharidra or Aranya Haridra
HABITAT : Wild turmeric is found abundantly in Karnataka, Kerala, Bengal, some parts of Maharastra. Yellow zeodary is appreciated in skin and blood vitiation disorders. It is also used widely for external application
BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Wild turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) is a perennial herb in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) native to South and Southeast Asia. Its foliage dies in autumn, with the aromatic, cream-colored, orange-red-fleshed rhizomes remaining dormant through winter. Before the broad, elliptic leaves emerge in early spring, a cylindrical inflorescence appears on a separate stalk, featuring enlarged, colorful pink-tipped bracts and fragrant, pinkish-white flowers with yellow lips. Primarily used for its cosmetic and medicinal properties, its rhizome has a strong camphor-like scent and does not stain the skin yellow like commonturmeric (Curcuma longa). It grows vigorously during the monsoon season and can be found wild in warm forest areas, notably in India’s Western Ghats.
MAJOR CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS:
The major chemical constituents of wild turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) are a diverse array of terpenoids, primarily including camphor, germacrone, and ar-curcumene, which contribute to its distinct aroma. While it also contains low levels of curcuminoids like curcumin, its primary bioactive compounds are volatile essential oils rather than the yellow pigments found in common turmeric.
THERAPEUTIC USES:
- Rhizomes are collected and fine paste is made along with lemon juice. It is applied to the forehead to relieve headache. It can be washed off after half an hour.
- Wild turmeric rhizome is rubbed well with the fresh juice of the leaves of holy basil (Tulasi)and applied over the burning and itching skin lesions caused due to insect bite. In urticaria rashes, it is of utmost use.
INDICATIONS:
Fever, cough, Rhinitis, tonsillitis
USEFUL PART: Rhizome
DOSAGE:
Choorna: 1-2 gms