Kasthuri Turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) is known for its medicinal, aromatic and cosmetic properties for a long time. In 1970s’ it was grown in roughly 6000 hectares in India, mainly in the western ghats. Throughout some stretch of time, the zone has dwindled definitely to a stage today where the species itself has become endangered. The main reason behind this was the introduction of a cheap, duplicate or fake genotype called Manja Koova or Zedoary (Curcuma zedoaria) in the market through unethical and unscrupulous involvement of middleman and vendors as it resembles the original one.
Research at Agricultural College Campus in Kerala Agri. University, Vellayani have developed simple but accurate methods to identify the true Kasthuri Turmeric from the duplicate ones through Electron microscopy and DNA finger printing studies. As a result of this study, you can identify true Kasthuri Turmeric from the fake ones by observing the following visual, morphological, anatomical and aromatical characters.
Colour of leaves: Kasthuri Turmeric leaves are attractive green, whereas a violet colouration is seen in the leaf midrib (from base to the tip of the leaf) in case of Manja Koova (Zedoary).
Colour of rhizome: Kasthuri Turmeric has a light cream coloured rhizome similar to that of Ginger while it is yellowish in colour in case of Zedoary.
Colour of processed powder: Kasthuri Turmeric powder is pale brown in colour like wheat bran while Zedoary powder is light to medium yellowish.
While we gently touch and move the under surface of Kasthuri Turmeric leaves a cushion or velvety like feeling is experienced. We won’t experience this in In Manja Koova (Zedoary).
While we crush Kasthuri Turmeric rhizomes, a trademark camphoraceous aroma is released. The freshly prepared Kasthuri Turmeric powder also has an enjoyable and pleasant smell. These two properties are lacking in case of Zedoary or Manja Koova.
Wild turmeric or Kasthuri Manjal is an extraordinary anti-inflammatory agent who takes care of any inflammation of your skin like the harmful rays of the sun, dust, allergies due to dirt and heat, etc.
