Journal
Musk turmeric (kasturi manjal): the pale turmeric that doesn’t stain
What musk turmeric (Curcuma aromatica, kasturi manjal) is, how it differs from kitchen turmeric, why it comes from Wayanad, and how it is used in an ubtan.
What is musk turmeric?
Musk turmeric is the rhizome of Curcuma aromatica, a relative of the turmeric used in cooking (Curcuma longa). It is known as kasturi manjal in Malayalam and kasturi haldi (कस्तूरी हल्दी) in Hindi.
It has a pale brown colour and a camphor-like aroma, quite unlike the bright orange-yellow of kitchen turmeric.
How it differs from kitchen turmeric
Kitchen turmeric leaves a strong yellow stain on skin and cloth. Musk turmeric does not leave that typical yellow stain, which is why it has long been the turmeric of choice for face packs and bathing powders in South Indian beauty rituals.
In skincare it is traditionally cherished for its soothing and antioxidant properties.
Why Wayanad
Ruh & Ras sources its musk turmeric from Wayanad, in the highlands of Kerala. Wayanad’s highland terrain, humid climate and organic-rich soils suit musk turmeric.
Where you find it in Ruh & Ras
Musk turmeric is the hero botanical of the Musk Turmeric Ubtan (40 g, MRP ₹599). Its full ingredients: Rosa Damascena (Damask) petal powder, Curcuma Aromatica (Musk Turmeric) rhizome powder, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) root powder and Citrus Sinensis (Orange) peel powder, on a base of chickpea, Avena Sativa (oats) kernel powder and almond powder.
Musk turmeric is also one of the ingredients of the Sandalwood Face Pack.
How to use the Musk Turmeric Ubtan
Mix a little of the ubtan with rose water or milk to form a soft paste. Apply it evenly to clean, damp skin, scrub gently, and rinse off. Use it once or twice a week, and mix only as much as you need for one use.
It is for external use only. Patch test before use, and stop using it if irritation occurs. Store it in a cool, dry place with the lid closed, scoop it out with a dry spoon, and use it within 12 months of manufacture.