Kasturi Haldi, also known as Wild Turmeric or Curcuma Aromatica, is a potent herb that has been used in traditional ayurvedic and beauty practices for centuries. This unique form of turmeric offers a wide range of benefits for the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products. In this article, we will explore the incredible benefits of Kasturi Haldi for the skin and discuss its primary and secondary effects.
But first, let’s take a look at the nutritional value of Kasturi Haldi and explore its nutrient profile.
Nutritional Value of Kasturi Haldi [1][4]
Kasturi Haldi or Curcuma Aromatica, is found in various parts of India, but most prominently in Chattisgarh. Here is a table that represents the nutritional value of curcuma aromatica obtained from various parts of Chattisgarh:
| Components | Content Percentage |
| Moisture | 6.5-19% |
| Nutrient | 81-93.5% |
| Ash | 2.54-3.54% |
| Crude Protein | 17.52-19.44% |
| Fat | 1.4-5.8% |
| Carbohydrate | 94.2-98.6% |
Here is a more detailed nutritional value table based on the nutrients in 100 gm Kasturi Haldi:
| Nutrient Values of Turmeric per 100 gm | ||||
| Calories 354kcal | Energy Value 1481kj | Total Fat 9.88mg | Carbohydrates 65g | Protein 8g |
| Dietary Fiber 21g | Sugars 3g | Sodium 38mg | Zinc 4.35mg | Potassium 2525mg |
| Vitamin C 25.9mg | Magnesium 193mg | Copper 0.603mg | Calcium 183mg | Iron 41.42mg |
| Vitamin E 3.1mg | Vit. B3 (Niacin) 5.14mg | Vitamin B6 1.8mg | Vit. B1 (Thiamine) 0.152mg | Vit. B2 (Riboflavin) 0.233mg |
Now let’s take a look at the benefits of this amazing herb, Kasturi Haldi.
12 Benefits of Kasturi Haldi for Skin [1][2][3]
1. Brightens the Skin
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi contains natural compounds that help brighten the skin and improve complexion. It reduces the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation, giving the skin a beautiful glow.
Secondary Benefit: The antioxidant properties of Kasturi Haldi protect the skin from free radical damage, preventing premature ageing and dullness.
2. Reduces Acne and Blemishes
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi has antimicrobial properties that help combat acne-causing bacteria, preventing skin eruptions, reducing breakouts, and preventing the formation of new blemishes.
Secondary Benefit: Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne, promoting clearer and healthier skin.
3. Fights Signs of Aging
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi is rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and protect the skin against oxidative stress, minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Secondary Benefit: It stimulates collagen production, improving the skin’s elasticity and firmness, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
4. Soothes and Calms the Skin
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi has soothing properties that help calm irritated and sensitive skin. It provides relief from inflammation, itching, and redness.
Secondary Benefit: Its gentle nature makes it suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema and rosacea.
5. Exfoliates and Removes Dead Skin Cells
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi acts as a natural exfoliant, gently removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. It promotes smoother and clearer skin.
Secondary Benefit: Regular exfoliation with Kasturi Haldi improves the absorption of skincare products and enhances their effectiveness.
6. Controls Oil Production
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi helps regulate excess oil production, making it an excellent ingredient for those with oily or combination skin. It moisturizes the skin, gives it a matte look, and reduces the occurrence of acne.
Secondary Benefit: Its astringent properties help tighten the pores and minimize their appearance, giving the skin a smoother and more refined texture.
7. Enhances Skin Radiance
Primary Benefit: The natural compounds present in Kasturi Haldi promote blood circulation, leading to improved skin radiance and a healthy, youthful glow.
Secondary Benefit: It revitalizes dull and tired-looking skin, restoring its natural luminosity and freshness.
8. Hydrates and Moisturizes the Skin
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance, preventing dryness and dehydration. It keeps the skin hydrated and nourished.
Secondary Benefit: Its emollient properties lock in moisture, creating a protective barrier and preventing moisture loss from the skin.
9. Lightens Scars and Pigmentation
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi’s skin-lightening properties help fade scars, marks, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even-toned complexion.
Secondary Benefit: It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots, and promotes a more uniform skin tone.
10. Detoxifies the Skin
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi detoxifies the skin by eliminating toxins and impurities, promoting a healthier and clearer complexion.
Secondary Benefit: It helps reduce skin congestion and promote cell renewal, resulting in a smoother and revitalized skin texture.
11. Provides Natural Sun Protection
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi offers natural sun protection and helps in reducing sun damage. It acts as a mild sunscreen, shielding the skin from harmful UV rays.
Secondary Benefit: The antioxidants in Kasturi Haldi help fight against free radicals generated by sun exposure, preventing sun-induced premature ageing.
12. Supports Wound Healing
Primary Benefit: Kasturi Haldi’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties promote faster wound healing. It soothes the wounded skin and prevents infections.
Secondary Benefit: It reduces inflammation around the wound area, thus facilitating the healing process and minimizing the risk of scarring.
How to use Kasturi Haldi [4]
There are many ways in which one can use Kasturi Haldi. It can be used both externally and internally. Here are a few ways in which you can use Kasturi Haldi:
- You can add it to your diet.
- Many find that rather than trying to add turmeric to their diet by various methods, it’s much easier to take a multivitamin supplement. Taking a multivitamin supplement that includes not only Kasturi Haldi but also other herbal extracts may provide for overall optimal health.
- It can be included in many face packs and applied to the skin for skincare purposes.
Here are a few DIY face packs that you can easily prepare at home:
DIY Face Packs with Kasturi Haldi
1. Haldi-Chandan Face Pack
Mix one spoon of Kasturi Haldi with one spoon of Chandan powder. Add some milk to the mix to form a spreadable paste. Use this paste as a face pack. This pack is ideal for dry skin.
2. Haldi-Besan-Tomato Face Pack
Mix one spoon of besan with half a spoon of Kasturi Haldi. Take a tomato, grind it in a mixer, and strain the seeds out of the blend. Add the strained juice to the mix of besan and Kasturi Haldi. This pack can be used to treat dark spots well.
3. Haldi-Multani Mitti Face Pack
To make a multani mitti and haldi face pack, take a tablespoon of multani mitti powder in a bowl. Add a teaspoon of Kasturi Haldi powder to it. Now add equal amounts of curd and water to form a paste and apply it as a face pack.
4. Haldi-Pudina Face Pack
Take 2 teaspoons of mint powder in a bowl. Add half a teaspoon of Kasturi Haldi powder to it. Now add in enough curd to form a thick, spreadable paste and apply as a face pack. This pack helps fade scars and blemishes.
5. Haldi-Malai Face Pack
Remove the malai from the pot after the milk has been boiled. Mix it with Kasturi Haldi and apply it on the face regularly as a face pack. This will help you keep your skin blemish-free.
Side Effects of Kasturi Haldi [4]
There are no such side effects of Kasturi Haldi. However, Kasturi Haldi is bound to react differently to different skin types as a skincare product.
- Kasturi Haldi causes drying of the skin. It is plausible that it might not be beneficial for people with dry skin types.
- Turmeric is known to leave a yellow stain on the skin very easily. Ensure that you wash your face a number of times after applying the face packs derived from Kasturi Haldi.
- Pregnant women needn’t avoid foods containing Kasturi Haldi, but its use as a medicinal herb is not recommended during pregnancy.
- Kasturi Haldi contains certain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications.
FAQs [1][2][3]
1. Can Kasturi Haldi be used on sensitive skin?
Yes, Kasturi Haldi is suitable for sensitive skin. Its soothing properties help calm irritation and redness, making it a gentle option for sensitive skin types.
2. How often should I use Kasturi Haldi on my face?
Kasturi Haldi can be used 2-3 times a week as a face mask or incorporated into your skincare routine. Adjust the frequency based on your skin’s response.
3. Can Kasturi Haldi stain the skin?
Kasturi Haldi has a low staining potential compared to regular turmeric. However, it is recommended to do a patch test before using it on the face to check for any potential staining.
4. Can Kasturi Haldi be used to treat specific skin conditions?
Kasturi Haldi has been traditionally used to address various skin concerns, including acne, hyperpigmentation, and eczema. However, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
5. Is Kasturi Haldi safe during pregnancy?
While Kasturi Haldi is generally considered safe, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using any skincare product or ingredient during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Kasturi Haldi, also known as wild turmeric, is a potent natural ingredient that offers a wide range of benefits for the skin. Its primary benefits include brightening the complexion, reducing acne and blemishes, soothing inflammation, controlling oiliness, and fighting signs of aging. The secondary benefits of Kasturi Haldi include its ability to regulate sebum production, making it suitable for oily and combination skin types. It is also known for its soothing properties, making it ideal for those with sensitive or irritated skin. Additionally, Kasturi Haldi has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radicals and prevent premature aging.
Incorporating Kasturi Haldi into your skincare routine can help you achieve a healthy, radiant, and youthful complexion. Whether you choose to use it in face masks, creams, or as a spot treatment, harnessing the power of Kasturi Haldi can transform your skincare regimen and provide you with the glowing skin you desire.
