Temu giring (Curcuma heyneana)

Curcuminoids are natural yellow pigments with strong antioxidant activity that help protect the skin from damage caused by UV exposure and pollution. Essential oils such as germacrone and dehydrocurdione act as volatile compounds that provide antimicrobial effects—both antibacterial and antifungal—while also producing a relaxing sensation. Tannins and saponins function as natural cleansers and astringents that effectively remove impurities, control excess oil, and minimize pores. In addition, naturally formed piperazine citrate has selective anthelmintic activity that helps eliminate intestinal worms from the digestive tract.

Temu giring is known as a natural skin brightener traditionally used in bridal body scrubs to help exfoliate dead skin cells and create a radiant, light golden complexion. Culturally, it has also been used as a deworming remedy to eliminate Ascaris lumbricoides in children by paralyzing the worms’ muscles. Its astringent properties help reduce subcutaneous fat and tighten sagging areas of the body, which is why it is a key ingredient in slimming herbal formulations such as Galian Singset. In addition, this plant has effective antiseptic activity that helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and relieve minor skin issues such as scabies or itching.