Originally published November 18 2010
Discover the secret of beauty on a budget with turmeric
by Carolanne Wright
(NaturalNews) Instead of paying high prices for chemical-laden cosmetics and creams, consider turmeric. This humble, economical, and easily accessible herb has been time tested throughout Asia for promoting natural beauty.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is native to Southeast Asia. This golden-orange rhizome is dried and ground into a powdered spice with many culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. Called khamin in Thai, turmeric is one of the key ingredients utilized in traditional skin care. When the fresh rhizome is crushed, an oil is produced that lends an effective natural moisturizer with antiseptic qualities. Turmeric is an important element in Thai Spa herbal wrap treatments, serving as a potent antibacterial skin freshener.
Turmeric is also a powerful blood purifier and liver cleanser. Taken internally, turmeric helps to detoxify the system which contributes to a radiant complexion. Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties curb aging by minimizing wrinkles and sagging of the skin.
Of the many cosmetic uses, turmeric is famous for healing:
Acne, eczema, and psoriasis
Uneven pigmentation
Dark circles and puffiness around the eyes
Cracked soles of the feet
Lackluster skin
(*Note: In the recipes below it is best to use only organic raw certified milk.)
To minimize dark circles under eyes, whisk together 1 tablespoon whole milk, 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon smooth almond butter. Apply under eyes and let it set for 10 minutes. Gently remove with cotton ball soaked in milk.
For a nourishing moisturizing mask, combine 4 macadamia nuts, 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder, 2 drops lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons milk in a coffee grinder. Process until smooth. Apply to face and let it set for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
A pinch of turmeric powder blended with sesame oil keeps gums healthy. Massage the mixture into gums for 5-10 minutes and rinse with warm water.
A simple recipe for illuminating a dull complexion is found in Natural Beauty Secrets from India:
Combine 1 teaspoon gram flour with 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder. Add a 1/2 teaspoon each of olive oil and milk plus 4-5 drops of lemon juice. Apply to skin and leave it on for 25-30 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
Since turmeric's color can stain, keep away from hairline. To remove any coloring from skin, simply rub a milk soaked cotton ball on affected area.
Take charge of your natural beauty. Encourage luminous heath inside and out with the amazing properties of turmeric.
Sources for this article:
The Secret Benefits of Ginger and Turmeric, Vikaas Budhwaar, New Dawn Press Group, 2006
Natural Beauty Secrets from India, Roshni Dayal, Tate Publishing and Enterprises, 2008,
Beauty and the Budget, Sandi Brenner,VBW Publishing, 2006
Thai Spa Book: The Natural Asian Way to Health and Beauty, Chami Jotisalikorn, Luca Invernissi Tettoni, Periplus Editions, 2002.
Beauty and Health Through Ayurveda, Vaidya Suresh Chaturvedi, Sterling Publishers Ltd., 2008
About the author
Carolanne enthusiastically believes if we want to see change in the world, we need to be the change. As a nutritionist, natural foods chef, and wellness coach, Carolanne has encouraged others to embrace a healthy lifestyle of organic living, gratefulness, and joyful orientation for over 13 years. Through her website www.Thrive-Living.com she looks forward to connecting with other like-minded people from around the world who share a similar vision.
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