Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It's been around for centuries and widely known for its healing properties. It contains a yellow colored chemical called curcumin. Curcumin is the key to turmeric's healing power and used to color food and cosmetics. Turmeric is common in Asian food, the main ingredient in curry, and gives mustard it's bright yellow color. It's anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and rich in antioxidants.
When applied to the skin, turmeric can help treat acne, eczema, rosacea, and aids in skin rejuvenation. Regular use of turmeric can soften the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Turmeric has an amazing ability to reduce acne and scarring. It helps correct uneven skin tone, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and provides great relief to aging skin. It helps stimulate new cell growth and keeps the skin's elasticity intact.
Since I mentioned above it's used as a dye, it can temporarily stain your skin. Don't let this scare you. I have been using turmeric for a year and it's never stained my skin. I do, however, have a friend that experienced some some staining on her face and hands after using turmeric. It all depends on your skin tone. If you have lighter skin, you may notice slight staining. If you have a darker skin tone, like me, you may not notice anything but a radiant glow! If you do notice staining, simply wipe it off with a toner. Preferably an all natural toner like witch hazel. If you are still scared, just use turmeric at night before you go to bed.
Below are my favorite ways to use turmeric:
Turmeric Face Mask
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp raw organic honey
1 tsp milk
Pour the turmeric in a bowl. Add the honey and then the milk. Mix ingredients together until you get a paste like consistency. You may need to add more or less milk to achieve the paste. Turmeric stains EVERYTHING so make sure the paste is thick and not going to drip off your face. Apply the paste and leave on until it dries, about 20 minutes. Wash off with water. Turmeric and honey both contain lots of antioxidants as well as antibacterial properties. Milk contains lactic acid, which is a form of alpha hydroxy acid, the same ingredient in most chemical exfoliants. The lactic acid in milk brightens and exfoliates the skin. It also treats breakouts. Don't forget that turmeric stains! Make sure you are very cautious of your clothes and whatever else you come in contact with while using turmeric.
Botanique Neem and Turmeric Face Wash
The Vitamin Shoppe carries this Neem and Turmeric Face Wash. Neem is a plant found throughout India. It's great for anti-aging as neem oil contains vitamin C. It's also has antiseptic properties to help those who suffer from acne. The neem and turmeric together make a great face wash.
Stay Gold Hydrating Face Mask
Perfectly Posh sells an amazing face mask called Stay Gold. Skin brightening turmeric will give your face the Midas touch while shea, milk, and honey calms, soothes, and hydrates.
Whiten Teeth with Turmeric
Wet your toothbrush and dip it in the turmeric powder. Brush your teeth as normal but instead if rinsing, allow the turmeric to sit on your teeth for 5 minutes. Rinse and brush again with your regular toothpaste. Your toothbrush will be stained yellow. If that does not bother you, use your normal toothbrush. If it does bother you, keep a separate toothbrush when you use turmeric. I noticed a significant differnece the first time I tried this.
