Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine and has long been known for it's powerful medicinal properties. The rhizome (root) of the plant contains curcuminoids, which give turmeric its yellow color. These compounds have been studied extensively for their potential therapeutic uses.
Turmeric is known to have antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer properties. In addition, it has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease showed that curcumin may be effective at slowing down the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Another study published in Neurobiology of Aging demonstrated that curcumin slowed brain aging in older mice.
A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research suggested that curcumin could help prevent cancer by inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis.
The American Cancer Society recommends eating no more than 2 grams per day of curcumin. This can be achieved through consuming one teaspoon of turmeric powder daily.
The following are some of the most common ways one may use turmeric for health benefits in everyday life:
1. Turmeric tea
A cup of turmeric tea provides an excellent source of antioxidants and other nutrients.
2. Turmeric latte
Add a few drops of turmeric oil to your favorite coffee or espresso drink. You can also add ground turmeric to your morning oats.
3. Curry dishes
This is a fairly common use in Indian cooking. Use turmeric paste when cooking vegetables, curries, and meat dishes.
4. Turmeric milk
Make fresh turmeric milk with water and 1/3 cup of freshly grated ginger.
5. Turmeric bath
Mix equal parts of turmeric powder and baking soda. Add this mixture to a tub of warm water. Soak for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
6. Turmeric toothpaste
Mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder with enough water to make a paste. Brush on teeth after meals.
7. Turmeric hair mask
Mix one part of turmeric powder with two parts of olive oil. Massage into scalp and leave on overnight. Rinse out next morning.
8. Turmeric scrub
Mix equal parts of lemon juice and turmeric powder. Apply to dry skin and let sit for 10 minutes. Scrub away using circular motions. Rinse well.
9. Turmeric face wash
Mix equal parts of honey and turmeric powder. Gently massage onto clean face and neck. Leave on for 5 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.
10. Turmeric body scrub
Mix equal parts coconut oil and turmeric powder. Rub over entire body and rinse well.
11. Turmeric foot soak
Combine 1/2 cup of Epsom salts and 1/2 cup of boiling water. Pour into a bowl and stir until dissolved. Place feet in the hot solution for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Repeat once or twice weekly as needed.
12. Turmeric eye cream
Mix 1/2 cup of almond oil with 1/2 cup of turmeric powder. Blend thoroughly. Apply to eyelids several times each week.
13. Turmeric lip balm
Mix equal parts of beeswax and turmeric powder. Melt together in double boiler. Allow to harden. Store in refrigerator.
14. Turmeric hand lotion
Mix equal parts of coconut oil and turmeric power. Spread evenly over hands and rub in. Let sit for 30 minutes. Wipe off with soft cloth.
15. Turmeric hair conditioner
To condition your hair, mix equal parts of coconut oil, jojoba oil, and turmeric powder. Massage into wet hair and leave on for about half an hour. Rinse out completely.
16. Turmeric shampoo
Mix equal parts of castor oil and turmeric powder with enough distilled water to make a thick paste. Massage into hair and scalp. Rinse well. Follow up by applying a moisturizing conditioner.
17. Turmeric hair color
Mix equal parts of henna and turmeric powder. Work into hair and cover with plastic wrap. Leave on for 3 hours. Shampoo and repeat process 2-3 times per week.
18. Turmeric body scrub
Mix equal parts of honey, coconut oil, and turmeric. Apply to dry skin. Massage in gently. Rinse well. This is great for those who have sensitive skin!
19. Turmeric hair spray
Mix equal parts of olive oil and turmeric powder (you may need more than 1/2 cup). Spray all over hair and let air dry.
20. Turmeric face mask
Mix equal parts of yogurt and turmeric powder. Cover face with a thin layer of the mixture and let it set for at least 15 minutes. Then rinse off.
21. Turmeric body butter
Mix equal parts of shea butter and turmeric powder. Smooth over entire body and let it stay for 20 minutes before showering.