Blue turmeric: A magic root with a Vicks-like aroma and no yellow stains

Turmeric is non-negotiable in an Indian kitchen. It goes into curries, snacks, pickles and even bedtime milk. But every once in a while, a cousin of the familiar yellow root turns up and steals the spotlight. This season, that cousin is blue turmeric.

It popped up in news cycles and social feeds after Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra casually mentioned it during Parliament’s winter session. That single reference was enough to send people Googling a turmeric that looks ordinary on the outside, costs several times more than the usual kind and smells uncannily like camphor or Vicks VapoRub.

So what exactly is this blue turmeric and why is it being treated like a wellness celebrity?

What makes blue turmeric different
Blue turmeric is scientifically known as Curcuma caesia, and it is also called black turmeric in some regions. From the outside, it could easily pass off as regular turmeric. Cut it open and the surprise arrives. The flesh inside has a bluish violet tint that feels almost unreal.

It is cultivated in parts of northeast India, Madhya Pradesh and even Wayanad in Kerala. It is rare, slow-growing and deeply rooted in traditional medicine. That combination explains why it can cost five times more than ordinary turmeric.

Stain-free turmeric
One of blue turmeric’s biggest party tricks is that it does not stain. Add it to food or drink and you will not be left with yellow fingers, yellow vessels or yellow everything.

Instead, what you notice is the smell. Blue turmeric has a sharp, cooling aroma often compared to camphor or pine. Many people say it instantly reminds them of Vicks VapoRub.

Why Priyanka Gandhi mentioned it
Priyanka Gandhi spoke about using blue turmeric for throat discomfort, allergies and health issues linked to air pollution. She also said she consumes it regularly.

A key reason often cited for its popularity is its high curcumin content, which is believed to be higher than that of regular turmeric. In traditional systems of medicine, this has made it a go-to ingredient for a range of everyday health concerns.

From joints to skin, why it has a loyal following
Blue turmeric is traditionally used for breathing-related discomforts like asthma and breathlessness. It is also valued for easing joint swelling and pain, especially among people dealing with arthritis.

Skin care is another area where it has a reputation. It is believed to help calm skin infections and bring back a natural glow. Digestive issues like gas and stomach discomfort are also reasons why it finds a place in home remedies.

Recipe: Blue turmeric milk
If turmeric milk is already part of your routine, switching things up with blue turmeric is easy.

Ingredients
1 glass milk
1/2 teaspoon blue turmeric powder
A pinch of black pepper powder
Honey or jaggery, to taste

Preparation
Heat the milk in a pan until warm
Add blue turmeric powder and black pepper
Simmer briefly, stirring well
Sweeten with honey or jaggery if you like
Drink warm.

Traditionally, this is taken at night and is believed to help with breathing discomfort and sleep.

Blue turmeric may not replace the everyday yellow staple just yet. But with its unusual colour, familiar smell and old-school medicinal reputation, it has certainly earned its moment in the spotlight.