Black Tumeric

Yes INDEED there is a black tumeric. It is called Kali Baldi in India and it belongs to the ginger family.

Its scientific name is curcuma Caesia. It is known as kunyit hitam in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Its roots become darker when they are older. In India it is used for treatment of joint pains.It is used in treating piles, leprosy, bronchitis, asthma, cancer, epilepsy, fever, wounds, impotency, fertility, menstrual disorders, tooth ache, vomiting etc. The most important thing is that research is going on its anti-cancer properties. 

 Its leaves have red streaks and the rhizomes are bitter in taste. Its stems are dark to black in colour.

They are quite hard to find.