Genuine Kasthuri guide

Buyer's guide

Original vs fake Kasthuri Turmeric

How to tell genuine Kasthuri Turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) from Zedoary: rhizome colour, aroma and powder colour.

Why the confusion?

For generations, Kerala families grew Kasthuri Turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) in their homesteads and used it in traditional skin care. Over time, a cheaper plant, Zedoary or Manja Koova (Curcuma zedoaria), began to be sold in its place under the same name.

Most people buying "Kasthuri Manjal" today have never seen the real one.

What to check Genuine Kasthuri Turmeric Zedoary substitute
Botanical name Curcuma aromatica Curcuma zedoaria
Also called Kasthuri Turmeric, Kasthuri Manjal Zedoary, Manja Koova
Powder colour Cream, wheat-bran colour Bright yellow
Cut rhizome Cream Yellow
Aroma Mild, camphor-like Lacks the camphor-like aroma

Three quick checks

  1. 1

    Look at the colour

    Genuine powder is cream to wheat-bran in colour. If it is bright yellow, it is not Kasthuri Turmeric.

  2. 2

    Smell it

    Open the pack. Genuine Kasthuri Turmeric has a mild camphor-like aroma.

  3. 3

    Check the rhizome

    If you have the whole rhizome, the cut surface should be cream rather than yellow.

How to use Kasthuri Turmeric

Mix the powder with milk, curd, rose water or honey into a smooth paste, apply it to clean skin and rinse off with water. Patch-test on your inner elbow 24 hours before first use.

Have more questions? Read our FAQ.

Try the genuine one

Our Kasthuri Turmeric Powder is genuine Curcuma aromatica with nothing added.

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