USTM researchers secure patent for natural antimicrobial cream from Black Turmeric

Guwahati, July 28: In a major boost for Northeast India’s contribution to herbal healthcare, a team of researchers has secured a patent for a novel antimicrobial cream derived from black turmeric (Curcuma caesia Roxb.), a medicinal plant long revered in traditional medicine.

Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine, black turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties.

The innovation, published in the Indian Patent Journal on July 25, 2025, promises soothing, hydrating, and antimicrobial properties suitable for a wide spectrum of skin types. Formulated with black turmeric, aloe vera, coconut oil, and sandalwood oil, the cream offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial benefits. It is aimed at treating common skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and bacterial infections, while also providing hydration and long-term protection.

The research was spearheaded by Rana Mukherjee, a PhD scholar from the Department of Applied Biology at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). He successfully filed and published the patent under the guidance of Dr. Deboja Sharma, Associate Professor in the same department. Moumita Sarkar from Nagaon is also a co-inventor on the project.

“Our goal was to create a safe, effective, and affordable skincare solution that integrates traditional plant-based wisdom with modern dermatological research,” said Dr. Sharma.

It is a unique formulation with Curcuma caesia with other ingredients.

The Curcuma genus, including Curcuma caesia, has been utilised for centuries for both nutritional and therapeutic purposes. Initially valued by indigenous groups, it has now garnered attention among modern generations. Its rhizome, highly esteemed in Ayurveda for medicinal properties, contains a potent medicinal essence. While leaves and stalks are consumed in salads, soups, and teas for their benefits, dried rhizomes are used mostly in powdered form for flavour and nutrition enhancement in foods.

Boiling rhizomes creates a nutritional tonic that is used to build up the immune system. Meanwhile, C. caesia has been proven to be a rich source of mineral elements, like Iron, Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, and Phosphorus. Along with the mineral elements, the crude extract of the rhizomes is found to have a high amount of protein, fibres, fats, and carbohydrates.

Experts note that the patented formulation could open up opportunities for India’s herbal skincare industry, especially as global consumers increasingly prefer chemical-free, sustainable products. With Assam and the Northeast already rich in medicinal biodiversity, this breakthrough could position the region as a hub for natural dermatological solutions.

The success also highlights USTM’s growing role in advancing cutting-edge research with practical applications in healthcare, strengthening its reputation as a leading centre for scientific innovation in the Northeast.

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USTM researchers secure patent for natural antimicrobial cream from Black Turmeric

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