Did you know that turmeric is useful not only to drink and eat, but also to apply it to the skin to, for example, deal with acne, reduce scar marks or smooth out wrinkles?
Turmeric, with its striking orange hue and distinct earthy aroma, is a popular spice in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, especially in its homeland of India. Moreover, its use is not limited only to the kitchen: it is added to cosmetics and hair dyes, used in religious rituals and at weddings.
I came to my attention to turmeric primarily because of its huge and research-backed health benefits. For example, this spice helps the arteries stay clean and the liver helps to deal with toxins. Turmeric reduces joint pain and reduces the likelihood of developing cancer. All this thanks to curcumin – a powerful antioxidant and antiseptic.
It turned out that he can come to the rescue when it comes to the beauty of the skin and hair. Instead of wasting your budget on synthetic products that may contain harmful chemicals, try a few turmeric beauty recipes.
For the skin
Acne removal
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of curcumin, this spice is effective as a natural remedy for combating rashes and annoying single pimples that appear here and there. It is able to relieve inflammation on the skin. To heal affected areas at home, mix turmeric (the amount depends on your complexion, turmeric has a strong coloring effect, so you need to use it with caution, especially if you have fair skin) with a little milk and natural honey and apply on your face ( if your skin is dark) or pointwise on the rash. After 10-15 minutes, wash off with warm water. This mask is also recommended for people with oily skin, as it regulates the sebaceous glands.
The same mask and, in general, regular consumption of turmeric has other positive effects:
Rejuvenation and prevention of wrinkles
As an antioxidant, turmeric helps fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Namely, free radicals are the cause of wrinkles, inflammation and the development of infections. Turmeric is able to neutralize free radicals, increase the production of antioxidant enzymes and inhibit lipid peroxidation.
Lightening scars and stretch marks
Here again, curcumin comes in handy – it can reduce the excess production of melanin, which is responsible for darkening of the skin, the formation of age spots, uneven areas and acne scars. Unlike lemon, which is also a good natural remedy for lightening dark spots, turmeric does not dehydrate the skin.
Hair loss protection
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are believed to address issues that cause hair loss, such as seborrheic dermatitis. In particular, turmeric’s powerful antioxidant properties reduce the harmful effects of UV radiation that can cause seborrheic dermatitis.
One more time: Turmeric has a strong coloring effect, so you need to use it with caution, especially if you have fair skin.
While you wait for your turmeric remedy to work, try this turmeric-ginger detox tea. By the way, ginger is here not only for flavor and enhancement of the detox effect. Ginger or pepper is needed to activate curcumin, which is otherwise poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.