Turmeric in Indian Bathing Traditions: The Story Behind Our Curcuma Soap
How turmeric became part of Indian bathing and wedding traditions, and how that heritage shaped our handmade Turmeric & Patchouli soap (Curcuma).
In short: Turmeric has been part of Indian kitchens and bathing rituals for generations, from everyday cooking to the haldi ceremony before a wedding, when a turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom. Our handmade Turmeric & Patchouli soap (Curcuma) draws on that heritage, and is made by hand at our own factory in Kerala.
Few spices are as closely tied to daily life in India as turmeric. This post looks at where it appears in bathing and celebration traditions, and how that inspired one of our best known soaps.
Why is turmeric part of Indian bathing traditions?
Turmeric has been grown in India for thousands of years and is used in cooking, dyeing and ceremony. Its golden colour is linked with celebration and new beginnings, which is why it appears in so many family rituals.
What is a haldi ceremony?
Haldi means turmeric in Hindi. In many Indian weddings, family and friends gather a day or two before the wedding to apply a paste of turmeric, gram flour and other ingredients to the bride and groom. It is a joyful, often messy, family occasion and one of the best known uses of turmeric outside the kitchen.
How did this shape our Curcuma soap?
Holy Lama grew out of a family business in Kerala that dates back to 1946, surrounded by spice farms. Turmeric was a natural choice for one of our first soaps. We paired it with patchouli, orange and geranium for a warm, spicy scent. Turmeric & Patchouli (Curcuma) is 99% natural origin, calculated under ISO 16128 with water included, and contains fragrance, listed as Parfum. The full ingredient list is on the product page.
Who makes it?
Every Holy Lama soap is made by hand at our own factory in Kerala, India, by a family business that dates back to 1946, and more than 80% of the people at our factory are women. Our soaps are vegan, SLS free and made on a virgin coconut oil base, and our products are registered with the Vegan Society.
Where can I learn more about turmeric soap?
Read our guide to turmeric soap: what it is and how to use it, or shop Turmeric & Patchouli Handmade Vegan Soap (Curcuma).
Frequently asked questions
What does haldi mean?
Haldi is the Hindi word for turmeric.
What is in Curcuma soap?
Turmeric and patchouli with orange and geranium, on a virgin coconut oil base. The full ingredient list is on the product page.
Is Turmeric & Patchouli soap vegan?
Yes. It is vegan and our products are registered with the Vegan Society.
Does it contain SLS?
No. Our soaps are SLS free.
Where is it made?
By hand at our own factory in Kerala, India.