Wild Turmeric

INCI name (powder): Curcuma Aromatica Root Powder
INCI name (extract): Curcuma Aromatica Root Extract
INCI name (essential oil): Curcuma Aromatica Root Oil
Botanical name: Curcuma aromatica Salisb.
Common names: Wild Turmeric, Kasturi Manjal, Aromatic Turmeric
Plant family: Zingiberaceae
Part used: Rhizome/root

Product description

Wild Turmeric is an aromatic botanical ingredient obtained from the dried rhizomes of Curcuma aromatica. It is commonly incorporated into facial masks, soaps, body scrubs and other cleansing or brightening cosmetic products. Unlike common culinary turmeric, which is usually Curcuma longa, wild turmeric must be declared using the Curcuma aromatica INCI name. The species is botanically recognized as wild turmeric. 

Cosmetic functions

• Skin-conditioning

• Antioxidant-supporting botanical

• Cleansing and exfoliating support

• Helps improve the appearance of dull, uneven-looking skin

• Provides natural colour and characteristic herbal fragrance

Physical properties

Appearance: Fine yellow, golden-yellow or yellow-brown powder
Odour: Warm, earthy and aromatic
Solubility: Insoluble in water and oil; dispersible in both
Recommended pH: Suitable across typical cosmetic pH ranges
Typical usage rate:

• Face masks and powdered cleansers: 1–10%

• Soaps and rinse-off products: 0.5–5%

• Scrubs and body treatments: 1–5%

• Leave-on formulations: 0.1–1%, subject to staining and compatibility tests

Formulation guidance

Disperse the powder in glycerine, propanediol, water or a small portion of the oil phase before adding it to the formulation. The powder does not dissolve and may settle in liquid products unless an appropriate suspending agent is used. Test the final product carefully because wild turmeric may impart a yellow colour or temporarily stain pale formulations, fabric and skin.