Turmeric, Black

Black Turmeric (Curcuma caesia)
Also known as: Kali Haldi, Black Zedoary

Black Turmeric is a rare and powerful medicinal plant native to India and Southeast Asia, treasured in Ayurvedic, Unani, and folk medicine for its deeply pigmented rhizome and potent therapeutic effects. Its bluish-black interior, camphor-like aroma, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a top herb for respiratory support, joint pain, skin care, and spiritual use. Less commonly grown than yellow turmeric, Curcuma caesia offers unique value in herbal gardens for both internal and external healing applications.

Key Characteristics

• Medicinal Root for Pain, Inflammation, and Lung Health
  The bluish-black rhizome is traditionally used for bronchitis, asthma, joint pain, bruises, and digestive issues. Often taken as a powder, paste, or infusion, Black Turmeric is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is considered more potent than yellow turmeric for certain acute ailments, especially involving the lungs and muscles.

• Used in Skin Remedies and Ritual Practices
  In Ayurvedic and tribal traditions, the root is ground into pastes to treat wounds, skin infections, and inflammation. It’s also used in spiritual and ceremonial applications, particularly in eastern India, for protection and energy clearing. The essential oils are valued for their antimicrobial action.

• Striking Appearance and Aromatic Profile
  Black Turmeric features dark, blue-black rhizomes and lush tropical foliage. When cut, the rhizome releases a sharp camphor-like scent, reflecting its essential oil content. The leaves are broad, dark green with a purple tinge on the underside, adding ornamental interest to medicinal gardens.

• Grows Well in Warm, Moist, Shaded Conditions
  Like other Curcuma species, it prefers rich, loamy soil, high humidity, and part shade to filtered sun. In USDA zones 8–11, it can be grown outdoors; in colder zones, it thrives in large containers that can be brought indoors for winter dormancy.

Product Details

• Native range: India and Southeast Asia

• Plant life cycle: Perennial in frost-free zones

• Sun requirements: Part shade to filtered sun

• Soil requirements: Moist, rich, well-drained soil

• Mature height: 3–4 feet

• Bloom time: June to August

• Bloom color: Pale yellow to pinkish, often hidden in bracts

• USDA Hardiness zones: 8–11 (grow in containers in zones 4–7)

Black Turmeric is one of the most potent and visually striking roots in the herbalist’s garden. With centuries of use for lung health, inflammation, and ritual, it brings power and beauty to modern herbal systems.