Overview

You already know the flavorful appeal of turmeric if Indian cuisine is your favorite. Turmeric was and is still used as a popular spice in Indian food and mustards to give them a "potent bite." It is used in curry, mustards and some cheeses, as well as in fabric dyes. It also has medicinal and cosmetic purposes. It softens and heals the skin, is anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic. It is popular in Indian culture for enhancing skin color and tone and is used in many Hindu celebrations. This natural remedy is no substitute for medical treatment and should only be used after seeking advice from your doctor.

History

Turmeric is perennial shrub that originated Southeast Asia and India. Today, it is grown in India and parts of Africa and Asia. It has been used in India for 2,500 years and was first used as a dye and then later as a spice. The plant is sterile and produces no seed. It was used in the 13th century as a less-expensive substitute for saffron. The power is golden colored and has a bitter warm taste. It is taken orally as a powder, capsule, tea or liquid extract.

Skin Beneftis

Turmeric is an effective ingredient in many creams and lotions. It is known for reducing pigmentation and evening out skin tone. Hindu brides-to-be rub a mixture of turmeric and gram flour on their entire bodies the morning of their weddings to give their skin a beautiful golden glow. Turmeric keeps skin supple and reduces body hair growth. A skin cleansing mixture of turmeric and milk applied to the skin helps control the formation of wrinkles and creases.

Skin Problems

Turmeric is good for treating skin irritations such as poison oak/ivy, eczema and psoriasis. It can be taken internally with warm milk or made into a paste to be applied onto the affected area. It is also a good acne treatment when mixed with coconut or sesame oil and applied on the face.

Other Benefits

Turmeric improves digestion and relieves gas and bloating. It also stimulates bile production and encourages bile excretion, which improves liver function and the body's ability to digest fat. It promotes cardiovascular health by preventing blockage in the arteries and keeping cholesterol levels low. Its anti-spasmodic properties make it a natural remedy for menstrual cramps.

Side Effects

Turmeric is relatively safe for most people. It can cause indigestion if taken in high doses. Persons with gallstones, toxic liver disorders, acute bilious colic, obstructive jaundice and congestive heart disease should not use turmeric. Turmeric should not be used by women who are pregnant, nursing, trying to conceive or have a history of fertility problems.