Turmeric Powder
Turmeric, a plant in the ginger family, is native to Southeast Asia and is grown commercially in that region, primarily in India. Its rhizome (underground stem) is used as a culinary spice and traditional medicine. Historically, turmeric was used in Ayurveda and other traditional Indian medical systems, as well as Eastern Asian medical systems such as traditional Chinese medicine. In India, it was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system.
Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others. Turmeric is a common spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. Curcumin is a major component of turmeric, and the activities of turmeric are commonly attributed to curcuminoids (curcumin and closely related substances). Curcumin gives turmeric its yellow color. Turmeric dietary supplements are made from the dried rhizome and typically contain a mixture of curcuminoids. Turmeric is also made into a paste for skin conditions.
Benefits of Turmeric
1) Reduced inflammation
Curcuminoids, the active compounds in turmeric, are sometimes used to decrease inflammation in arthritis. These potential anti-inflammatory effects could possibly help your skin, too. Turmeric may possibly be of benefit with inflammation related to skin diseases, such as psoriasis.
2) Antibacterial potential
Turmeric may also treat and prevent bacteria in the skin that can otherwise contribute to acne cysts and staph infections.
3) Acne treatment
With its anti-inflammatory potential, turmeric may be helpful in treating inflammatory acne. The extract may also reduce the appearance of acne scars. Also includes:
Cysts
Nodules
Pustules
Papules
4) Antioxidant power
Turmeric is rich in antioxidants. When it comes to skin care, antioxidants can help keep free radicals from destroying healthy cells. This may prevent the onset of hyperpigmentation, scars, and other long-term skin concerns. There’s even the possibility that turmeric, along with other healthy lifestyle habits, may reduce the chances of skin cancer, but more studies are needed.
5) Reduced hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation has been one focus of topical turmeric studies. If you have patches of skin that are darker than the normal surrounding tissue, this is hyperpigmentation. One such study found that a turmeric-based cream reduced hyperpigmentation by more than 14%.
6) Skin irritation
When applied topically, turmeric may reduce skin irritation. Some studies have supported curcuminoids as potential irritation-alleviators for breast cancer treatments.
7) Wrinkle treatment
Studies have suggested turmeric as a possible treatment for fine lines and wrinkles. It may work to improve overall appearance in skin texture, which, in turn, may make wrinkles less noticeable.