Curcuma aromatica

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Curcuma aromatica, also known as wild turmeric, is a plant species in the ginger family. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, where it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking.

Description[edit | edit source]

Curcuma aromatica is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a thick, fleshy, and aromatic rhizome, which is bright yellow to orange in color. The leaves are large, oblong, and have a deep green color. The flowers are pink or white, and are borne in a spike at the top of the plant.

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Curcuma aromatica is native to the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It is also found in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and scrublands.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Curcuma aromatica has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking. The rhizome is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is also used in the preparation of cosmetics, due to its ability to improve skin complexion and reduce skin inflammation.

In cooking, Curcuma aromatica is used as a spice and food coloring. It is a key ingredient in many Indian and Southeast Asian dishes, including curry and rice dishes.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Curcuma aromatica is cultivated for its rhizome, which is harvested in the late summer or early autumn. The plant prefers a warm, humid climate and well-drained soil. It is propagated by division of the rhizome.

Conservation status[edit | edit source]

Curcuma aromatica is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, overharvesting and habitat loss are potential threats to the species.


Zingiberaceae Stub
Example image of a Zingiberaceae plant
This article about a member of the Zingiberaceae family is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.
Related articles
LocationAsia.svg
   This article is a Asia-related stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


Food.jpg
This article is a stub related to food. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD