Turmeric, the bright orange-yellow spice, not only makes food tasty but works against acne, uneven skin tone and even on fine wrinkles. This humble spice with amazing natural ingredients has been used to tackle skin trouble, heal cracked feet, get rid of dandruff for centuries.
Turmeric is the most powerful herb on the planet and has played a role in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 10,000 years to treat stomach ailments, improve blood circulation, and heal skin wound. The magic herb is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral powerhouse that offers a viable treatment for a variety of medical conditions like pancreatic cancer, diabetes, reducing pain and inflammation.
Beauty expert Shahnaz Husain lists the usefulness of the turmeric.
Turmeric contains many properties that are beneficial for the skin. It contains calcium, potassium, magnesium, Vitamins B6 and C. Apart from many healing properties, these help to strengthen the supportive tissues and help the skin remain firm. They also protect the youthful properties of the skin.
As far as cosmetic care is concerned, turmeric is a part of our traditional beauty care. During the ancient times, turmeric was added to body packs or “ubtan” due to its skin beautifying and purifying properties. Turmeric not only has antiseptic and germicidal properties, but also helps to soften and brighten the skin. Used over a period of time, it helps to remove tan and lighten skin colour. A pre-bath cream for body care, containing lemon and turmeric protects the skin from the drying effects of chlorinated water. The skin becomes softer, smoother and brighter.
Turmeric can easily be used for home beauty care in the following ways:
To remove tan: Add a pinch of turmeric to yogurt and apply daily on the face. Wash it off after 20 minutes.
Turmeric can also be mixed with aloe vera gel to soothe and moisturise the skin. In fact, it helps to heal sunburn.
Body pack: Mix besan (gram flour) with yogurt and a pinch of turmeric into a paste. Apply on the arms and legs three times a week. Wash it off after half an hour.
For facial hair: Apply a paste of turmeric powder and milk and rub this on the skin with a circular motion. It is said to discourage facial hair over a period of time, but it may leave a slight yellowish colour on the skin.
To minimise stretch marks: First apply olive oil and massage it on the areas. Then mix besan, yogurt and turmeric (body pack given above) and apply on the area. Wash it off after half an hour.
Mix ground almonds with yogurt and a pinch of turmeric to make a face and body scrub. Apply and rub gently on the skin with small circular movements. Wash off with water.
