New Delhi: Black turmeric, known as Kali Haldi in Hindi, is a rare and prized herb native to Northeastern and Central India. This underground rhizome from the Curcuma caesia plant has been revered for centuries, not only for its medicinal qualities but also for its significance in religious rituals. While the plant itself may be grown as an ornamental, the black turmeric root holds much more value due to its high concentrations of curcumin, surpassing other turmeric varieties in potency.
The rhizome has a sharp, bitter taste and a distinctive, pleasant aroma owing to its essential oils rich in camphor and starch.
Black turmeric is renowned for its wide range of health benefits. Its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties make it a powerful herb in traditional medicine. Tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra often utilise Kali Haldi as a tonic for the brain and heart, as well as for treating various ailments. It has been used to manage leucoderma, piles, asthma, tumours, tuberculosis of neck glands, spleen enlargement, epileptic seizures, inflammations, and allergic reactions.
The herb has been traditionally applied to ease bruises and sprains, reduce migraine symptoms, and alleviate arthritis- discomfort. Furthermore, it contains compounds that act as smooth muscle relaxants, anti-tumour agents, and antioxidants, making it effective against various conditions like haemorrhoids, leprosy, asthma, and fever.
As a native species to India, Black turmeric is also highly valued in cultural ceremonies, particularly among tribal groups. Due to overharvesting and its limited growing regions, it was declared endangered by the Indian Agricultural Department in 2016. Conservation efforts are ongoing, especially in Odisha along India’s Bay of Bengal coast, to protect this remarkable herb for future generations.
Black turmeric remains a widely used and respected herb across India and Southeast Asia, available in both fresh and dried forms. With its potent curcumin levels, Kali Haldi continues to play a significant role in promoting health and well-being, bridging ancient wisdom with modern needs.
