Some of the foods we eat are behind the increased cases of infections and illnesses such as cancer and high blood pressure. This realisation has sent researchers searching for healthier foods that will improve not only our health but also enhance our beauty. One such “super” food is turmeric spice - a plant that contains tens of health and beauty benefits.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric spice is obtained from turmeric plant in the ginger family, predominantly found in Southern Asian countries among them, India. Since when it was first used for its peppery flavour and the amazing kick effects on foods, turmeric has gone on to become the most highly-prized spice in the world. This was especially after it was found to have anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to treat conditions such as jaundice, toothaches, chest pain and menstrual problems.
How to Use turmeric
Turmeric has three significant benefits to humanity. It can be used for health purposes, in cooking and for beauty purposes. Let’s see how turmeric can be used at home;
- Health Benefits
The following are health benefits associated with taking turmeric.
- Lowering cholesterol
Researchers believe that taking turmeric extract thrice a day for three months will lower cholesterol and triglycerides in overweight people with high cholesterol.
Researchers believe that turmeric extract is effective in reducing pain in people suffering from osteoarthritis.
- Itching
Taking turmeric thrice daily by mouth for two months reduces itching in people suffering from long-term kidney disease.
Other health benefits of turmeric include treatment of the following conditions:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Eye inflammation
- Colorectal cancer
- Skin wounds related to cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Stomach upset (dyspepsia)
- Gum disease (gingivitis)
- Stomach ulcers (Helicobacter pylori)
- Joint pains
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Prostate cancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Tuberculosis and
- Ulcerative colitis inflammatory bowel disease among other illnesses
- Beauty Uses
Turmeric extract is equally useful in giving us a good and beautiful look. Its anti-inflammatory yellow-colored chemical known as curcumin is used on the skin to give it a soft feel. Here is how to use turmeric for beauty purposes.
- Face mask
Turmeric can be used to soothe the face and give back your tender and whole face. Add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder to a face mask recipe of your choice, say unsweetened yoghurt, and apply it on your face. Wash it off after five minutes.
- Acne Gel
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric extract have been found to cool and stop acne. Prepare a paste of turmeric and honey in the ratio of 1:2 and apply on the acne.
- Brighten teeth
You can use turmeric extract to whiten and brighten your teeth. Wet your toothbrush in water and then dip it in turmeric powder. Brush your teeth as usual with the turmeric extract. When you are done brushing, don’t just rinse it off. Leave it on your teeth for up to five minutes then rinse it off.
- Skin pain, swelling, bruising and sprains on the skin
Turmeric extract has anti-inflammatory capabilities that soothe swelling, skin pain, bruising and sprains on the skin. It takes away the pain, and the swollen part heals and returns back to a normal state.
- Inflammatory skin conditions
Add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder onto water to make a thick paste. Gently, apply and rub onto the affected parts of the skin.
- Perfumes
The curcumin chemical is the primary turmeric product used in perfumes. It's appealing scent makes a must-have ingredient in perfumes.
- Cooking Benefits
Turmeric works miracles in the kitchen. Besides being used for health and beauty benefits, it can be added into different dishes as it is one of the best spices the world that has been produced. Check out our free recipes here
- Turmeric tea
Turmeric tea is a mixture of turmeric spices and milk. It has a deep earthy flavour and is best in winter as it keeps off illnesses and fills the stomach.
- Curry powder
The bitter-sweet taste of turmeric spice has found its way into many cuisines around the world. Turmeric is a natural ingredient in curry powder that you may use in your home.
- Everyday spice
You probably want to enjoy turmeric in its purest form. You can add this turmeric powder into whatever dish you cook; eggs, veggies, soup, and meat among others.
Turmeric extract is a food spice that guarantees us benefits whichever way we use it. It is particularly useful to treat and soothe illnesses including pain relief, soothing your skin and repairing damaged skin as well as working magic in the kitchen. If you want an all-around organic superfood spice for your family, try Superfood World Organic Certified Turmeric powder.