Top 15 Black Turmeric Benefits and Uses

Whenever we think of turmeric, we think of some bright golden delight. It’s a spice that Indians need no introduction of. This root is dearly and deeply rooted in the Indian tradition and we’ve been consuming it since the Ayurvedic ancient times. But black turmeric? Really? Well, yes!

Black turmeric does exist. Not in any artificial or commercially produced form, but in its natural one. And it doesn’t stand any less when it comes to the benefits. 

So, without any delay, let’s dig deep, uproot this lesser-known spice, and look at the numerous benefits of black turmeric. 

What Is Black Turmeric?

Black turmeric is the cousin of well-known golden-yellow turmeric. Scientifically, it is known as Curcuma Caesia. It is similar to the more familiar yellow turmeric root but has a distinct dark colour. You may find it to be anywhere from deep purple to black. But what about its taste?

Just bring it closer to your nose and you’ll sense a deep earthy aroma. Taste-wise, it differs slightly from the yellow one – warm, bitter, slightly peppery. 

Now, let’s look at some brilliant black turmeric benefits.

Black Turmeric – 15 Best Benefits of Black Beauty

Modern synthetic drugs are sagging the liver down with their detrimental effects. To counter this, science is studying ancient herbs and spices for their medicinal properties. Turmeric is one of the most studied spices due to its rich history.

Black Turmeric has been used medicinally in both Ayurveda and Unani systems.

Here is why:

1. Amazing in terms of antioxidants

Wonder what could life be without the blessings of antioxidants? Brutal and vulnerable. Antioxidants protect our bodies from the harms of free radicals that damage our cells. Not just this. Antioxidants also bless our skin with youth, organs with longevity, immune system with strength, and heart with healing. 

Being rich in antioxidants is one of the best black turmeric benefits. Studies found this rare turmeric species to be rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds. ^[1]

2. A blessing for your brain

Most issues that make ageing a painful happening come from the deteriorating brain. Because neurons suffer, memory issues occur. We fail to function normally and start forgetting things.

Black turmeric is rich in compounds that have shown their neuroprotective benefits. This means that its consumption may save neurons from degeneration and other types of harm. ^[2]

3. Fights off inflammation

Inflammation is a natural protective response of the human body against injuries and infections. It wants to defend itself. Alright. But when this inflammation becomes chronic, as in the case of joint pain, it becomes troublesome. 

Consumption of black turmeric benefits us in bringing down inflammation. Curcuminoids are the main compound found in turmeric that show strong anti-inflammatory properties. ^[3]

4. Black turmeric is skin-soothing

Skin is the biggest organ of the human body. It is also the organ that protects every other organ from the damage. But what will protect our skin? Studies say that black turmeric can. 

This black spice contains compounds such as anti-oxidants, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenols. All these compounds protect the skin from irritation, rashes, oxidative stress, etc. This means soothing and graceful skin. ^[4]

To let your skin taste its blessings, simply apply a paste of a few drops of lemon juice, turmeric, and rose water on your neck and face for 10-15 minutes and wash. 

5. Your natural medicine against bacterial infections

You might remember using concoctions made of herbs and spices during the chaotic COVID times. It is because it works against bacteria and viruses. We have been using it traditionally for ages. 

Turmeric extracts contain compounds such as methanol, acetone, etc. These compounds are helpful in fighting several bacterial strains. ^[5]

6. Protective against liver and kidney issues

One study found black turmeric extract to be non-genotoxic and to be preventive against the harmful effects caused by certain drugs. Specifically, it protected bone marrow cells and helped prevent damage to the liver and kidneys caused by certain drugs. ^[6]

This implies that black turmeric could be a beneficial herbal supplement to reduce the side effects of allopathy. 

7. Fights off fungal infections

Apart from being anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, black turmeric benefits us in terms of fungal infections as well. It contains anti-fungal properties. 

Black turmeric extracts, especially oil, have been scientifically tested and proven to be effective against several fungal strains that threaten humans and plants. So, if you usually suffer from those annoying fungal infections, give turmeric a try?

8. Balances blood sugar

Modern lifestyle is being an invitation to lots of health problems. Obesity and irregular blood sugar levels are a few of those. When blood glucose levels go out of control, our health gets derailed as well. 

Studies show that black turmeric can help control blood sugar levels and improve overall health. The special part of black turmeric, called the rhizome, has been found to be a powerful ally in fighting diabetes. ^[7]

Not only it reduces blood sugar levels but it also helps in weight management. 

9. Strengthens immunity

Black turmeric benefits immunity too. It is because turmeric is rich in antioxidants and possesses antiviral, antifungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Firstly, antioxidants combat free radicals. Then it reduces the ill impact of inflammation and germs. This enhances the body’s ability to tackle infections and recover quickly. A natural remedy to stray strong. 

10. Protects you against internal blood clots

Studies reveal that this natural gem can help keep your blood vessels clear as well. This promotes a healthy heart and overall well-being. ^[8]

Research suggests its extracts effectively dissolve blood clots, offering a positive boost to your heart health. So, if you ever sweat about internal blockages, try incorporating black turmeric into your routine. But apart from this, you also have to work on your diet and have an active lifestyle. 

11. Deals with Digestive Disorders

We all know the sort of food we keep our stomachs loading with – spicy kebabs, biryani, burgers, and bad blah-blahs. All this invites numerous digestive issues that range from stomach aches to indigestion and even IBS. 

Black turmeric can be used to treat several digestive disorders. It contains curcumin in higher amounts. 

Black turmeric contains 14.8% ar-curcumene, twice as much as compared to its yellow sibling (6.3%) ^[9]

Studies have shown that curcumin blesses human guts with its therapeutic properties and provides relief for several bowel disorders. ^[10]

Apart from this, black turmeric also possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This means good news for the guts. It scraps off toxins from the gut and nourishes it thus.

12. Relief in Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are a painful affair. It kills the joy of living. And the more bad news? That it is natural and nothing can be done about it. Or is it not? 

Menstrual pain can really be relieved using black turmeric. Incorporate a small piece of its rhizoma into your routine and you might feel a wave of relief. It is Mother Nature’s remedy. How?

• Its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory characteristics alleviate menstrual cramps. 
• It is also a natural muscle relaxant and thus eases the tension and brings relief 

All these things work on the source of pain, which is inflammation and tension. So, ease the discomfort and navigate your monthly cycle with ease and comfort.

13. Boon for Your Bones

The better your bone density, the stronger your bones are. And turmeric can help you have exactly that. Black turmeric benefits bones through its main compound: curcumin. This compound is known to reduce inflammation in bones and enhance bone density. ^[11]

So, embrace this rare spice, elevate your meals, fortify your bones, and run stronger in life.

14. Conquer Cold and Cough

Since times ancient, turmeric has been used to treat cough and cold. In Ayurveda, it was even referred to as ‘jawarantika’, something that cures cough and fever. It was used to treat cough, fever, runny nose, sinusitis, etc. The secret lies in its many properties. ^[12]

Black turmeric contains curcumin, which offers its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimetabolic, and antioxidant activities to treat sore throat, cough and cold. It even increases heat in the body. Now, how to use it? ^[13]

The best way is to use raw black turmeric root instead of its dry and powdered form. Make turmeric milk by adding a small piece of this root and don’t forget to add black pepper to it. 

Black pepper enhances the absorption of turmeric in the body by 2,000%. ^[14]

The reason these two are taken together. 

15. Treats Toothache

Black turmeric benefits oral health as well. It is a brilliant tooth-ache relieving remedy. The secret lies in its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the area of pain and thus bring the much-required relief. ^[15]

Studies showed that this spice was as effective as the treatment done by giving cortisone (a pain and inflammation-reducing medicine). Traditionally, even its leaves were used in Ayurvedic medicine. ^[16][17]

But, how much black turmeric should one take?

As the amount of curcumin in black turmeric is almost twice as compared to yellow turmeric, one should only take it between 500-1000mg.

How To Use Black Turmeric?

Black turmeric can be used in various ways to harness its potential benefits. 

Here are some common methods for using black turmeric:

1. In Cooking

Powdered Form: Grind dried black turmeric to a fine powder and use it as a spice in your cooking. It adds a unique flavor and color to dishes.

Fresh Form: Peel and grate fresh black turmeric to use in curries, soups, or stews. It has a distinct taste compared to yellow turmeric.

2. Turmeric Tea

Ingredients: A pinch of black turmeric powder and water. Honey can or cannot be based on your preferences.

Instructions: Just add a pinch of black turmeric powder in lukewarm water. Add honey (if you are)to taste. Adding homes makes it a great drink for weight loss. Enjoy as a soothing tea.

3. Black Turmeric Milk  

Ingredients: Black turmeric powder, milk (dairy or plant-based), honey.

Instructions: Mix 1-2 grams of black turmeric powder with warm milk and honey for a comforting and potentially health-boosting milk. It improves immunity, cold, cough and bone health. 

4. Infused Oil

Ingredients: Black turmeric, carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil).

Instructions: Infuse black turmeric in oil by heating the oil with grated turmeric. Strain and use the infused oil for massages or as a base for cooking.

5. Smoothies

Ingredients: Fresh or powdered black turmeric, fruits, vegetables, and yogurt.

Instructions: Add black turmeric to your favorite smoothie for a nutritional boost.

6. Topical Applications

Skin Mask: Mix black turmeric powder with coconut oil to create a salve for skin issues. Use only in cases of severe itching, swelling, venom or snake bites. But this should be done under professional guidance. 

7. As home remedy for stomach ache and healing

• Boild fresh rhizome of black turmeric in water for relief in stomach ache. In case of specific issues, or prolonged ache, consult a healthcare professional. 
• Crush the fresh rhizome into a paste and apply on the injury for quick healing and for relief in rheumatic arthiritis. 

Conclusion 

Black turmeric: a rare and less-known spice. Recently, it has emerged as a powerhouse of wellness. Although it doesn’t look gold, it is true gold when it comes to the many black turmeric benefits. 

Speak of its antioxidant-rich goodness or its brain-boosting prowess, it doesn’t disappoint. Not just this, it also reduces inflammation, pampers your skin, and even stands guard against infections. Not just a spice, but a superhero for your liver, kidneys, and overall health. Brilliant, black, and beautiful. 

So, why wait? Think of spicing up your life with the magic of black turmeric! But remember, while it fights internal battles, a good laugh and a balanced lifestyle are what you truly need in life. Embrace this black gold and let your health journey be as vibrant as this delightful spice!

FAQs