Government name
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Powder
Goes by
Turmeric
The verdict
Superhero
Superpower
Curcumin, the naturally occurring yellow pigment that gives turmeric its color.
Turmeric's government name is Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Powder. Most of us just know it as the spice that turns curry golden.
Superhero or supervillain?
Superhero. Its superpower is curcumin, a naturally occurring pigment that makes turmeric so brightly yellow.
What it does in my soap and clay masks
I use turmeric as a natural colorant. In soap it gives warm shades from pale gold to deep orange, depending on how much I add. Curcumin is sensitive to light, so turmeric colors can fade over time, especially near a sunny window.
The supervillain rumor
"Won't turmeric stain?" It's a strong dye, so a heavy hand can leave a yellow tint on skin, washcloths or grout. That's why it's used in small amounts. A little goes a long way.
The color it makes
Here it is in 4 things I make.
In the soaps named for Everley, Faith and Rebecca.
Usually seen with olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil and olive wax.
Don’t judge an ingredient by its government name. Judge it by the science.
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