Turmeric is a flowering plant whose roots (called ‘rhizomes’) are used in cosmetics, healthcare as well as culinary. These rhizomes are boiled in water and dried, after which it will get a golden yellow colour. Later on, these turmeric rhizomes will be powdered to make the world-famous turmeric powder. This powdered golden spice often used in Asian cooking, especially in curries, has earned quite a reputation as a miracle food. Extensively used as a herbal supplement, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been used as a curative medicine in healthcare, especially in cosmetology.
Curcumin, the chemical present in turmeric, is a miracle ingredient which makes it a natural antiseptic with antibacterial /antimicrobial properties. It repairs and prevents parched skin and is applied to treat eczema and acne. Turmeric is traditionally used in the daily face and hair care regimen. Turmeric, mixed with other ingredients too will give solutions to various skin problems.
Nowadays, numerous studies have brought out the magical benefits of plant turmeric. Based on this, further biotechnological researches have been conducted to produce various types of turmeric products, like – Turmeric extracts, granules, powders, and other combinations. All these can be taken inside as a medicine or can be included along with other foods, as well as applied externally. Like any other turmeric product, these products can also give cosmetic benefits.
Let’s explore some of the cosmetic usages of plant turmeric:
1. To brighten skin
Applying turmeric powder after mixing it in water, or applying the paste of turmeric root has been practised as a daily routine in many parts of Asia. Turmeric mixed with milk or curd can be used as a face pack as well. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements in turmeric bring out the skin’s natural glow.
2. To heal wounds and scarring
Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat wounds and infections. As mentioned above, the chemical curcumin in turmeric gives it the healing property by reducing inflammation and increasing oxidation. This results in a quick healing of your wounds. There is even a traditional practise of applying turmeric powder directly on wounds.
3. To soothe dry skin
Turmeric is famous for its hydrating property, which will revitalize the skin and remove symptoms of dryness. It naturally promotes the process of removing dead skin cells to reveal youthful and soft skin, and protects the skin cells from further damage. Turmeric can protect the natural health of your skin, which can actually slow down ageing.
4. To cure acne and acne scars
Turmeric’s natural antiseptic property keeps the bacteria from spreading. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory property can take down redness and swelling. To be added, its healing property can help with larger, open blemishes. Turmeric is also known to reduce scarring. All these together will help your face clear up from acne breakouts, as well as a scar.
These are only some among the numerous cosmetic benefits of Turmeric. But, this is enough to prove the miracle turmeric can bring into our looks.