Besar (Turmeric) Oil
Essential Oil Name: Turmeric Oil (from fresh root)
Besar (Turmeric) Oil
Scientific name –
Curcuma longa
Uses
- Medicinal:
- Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric oil is widely used to reduce inflammation, pain, and joint stiffness, particularly in conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect the body from free radical damage, contributing to cellular health and immune support.Antibacterial: Used to treat skin infections, wounds, and cuts due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Digestive Health: Known to promote digestion, relieve bloating, and support liver health. It is sometimes used in traditional remedies for gastritis and indigestion.
- Cosmetic:
- Skin Care: Turmeric oil is often used in skincare products for its ability to brighten skin, reduce blemishes, and treat acne and scars. It also has antioxidant effects that can improve skin tone and texture.
- Hair Care: Can be applied to the scalp to promote healthy hair growth, prevent dandruff, and reduce scalp inflammation.
- Aromatherapy:
- Turmeric oil is used in aromatherapy for its relaxing, calming, and uplifting properties. It can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
- Cleaning:
- Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Citronella oil is used in natural cleaning products and disinfectants.
Composition
Main Compounds and Approximate Percentage:
- Curcumin: ~60-70%
- Turmerone: ~10-15%
- Ar-turmerone: ~5-10%
- Zingiberene: ~5-7%
- α-Pinene: ~3-5%
Turmeric oil is rich in Curcumin and Turmerone, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
Availability in Nepal:
- Region:
- Grown primarily in the Terai and hilly regions of Nepal.
- Altitude:
- Thrives best at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,500 meters above sea level.
Sourcing and Production Period
- Cultivation:
- Turmeric is cultivated in warm and humid regions with fertile, well-drained soil. It is commonly grown in Nepalese farms.
- Production Period:
- Harvesting: Turmeric roots are typically harvested in late autumn, around October to November.
- Oil Extraction: Steam distillation is used to extract oil from the fresh roots, typically done after the harvest season.
Turmeric oil is highly valued for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, making it useful in medicinal, cosmetic, and aromatherapy applications. In Nepal, it is both a traditional remedy and an increasingly popular export product
