Like many spices, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine. This flavorful spice is grown primarily from the rhizomes, or roots, of a flowering plant in India and other parts of Southeast Asia, and in addition to giving curry its vibrant yellow color, turmeric is also known to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to a past review.
Turmeric is one of the best-known spices. Besides its excellent taste, it has other extremely useful qualities. We put together a selection of unexpected ways to use turmeric.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
IT GETS RID OF ACNE: 1 tbsp aloe vera juice + 1/4 tsp turmeric Apply to problem areas for 10-15 minutes, then wash off. Frequency: 3 times a week.
IT WHITENS TEETH: Dip your toothbrush in sunflower or olive oil, then in crushed turmeric root. Clean your teeth for 3 minutes. Frequency: 2-3 times a week.
IT GETS RID OF A COLD: Mix 1/2 tsp dry turmeric into a glass of linseed oil. Heat up until you get a strong aroma. Inhale for 1-2 minutes. Frequency: 2 times a day.
IT IMPROVES HAIR GROWTH: 1 tbsp turmeric powder + 50 ml vegetable oil Apply the paste to your roots for 30 minutes, then wash off. Frequency: 1-3 times a month.
IT IMPROVES YOUR MOOD AND STIMULATES BRAIN FUNCTIONING: I glass cold water + 1/2 tsp turmeric + 1/2 tsp black pepper + a slice of lemon The effect is instantaneous. Not recommended if you have stomach problems. Frequency: Once a day.
IT REDUCES PAIN IN THE JOINTS: 1 tbsp turmeric powder + 1 tbsp honey + 2-3 crushed garlic cloves Apply the paste to the painful area for 15-20 minutes. Frequency: Daily for 2 weeks.
IT HELPS YOU LOSE WEIGHT: 1 glass milk 1/2 tsp turmeric The drink speeds up metabolism and reduces your appetite. Frequency: Every day in the morning and evening.
IT HEALS WOUNDS, BURNS, AND INFLAMMATION: 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp ground ginger a little water Spread the resulting paste on the affected area. Frequency: Once a day.
IT GETS RID OF A SORE THROAT: 1/2 tsp turmeric + 1/2 tsp salt Mix together in a glass of hot water. Gargle. Frequency: 3 times a day.
IT REJUVENATES THE SKIN: 1 tsp turmeric + 1 tsp milk + 1 tsp honey Apply to steam-treated skin on the face and neck for 10-15 minutes. Wash off. Frequency: Every other day for a month. A 2-month gap between courses.
IT PREVENTS CANCER: 1/4 tsp turmeric + 1/2 tsp olive oil + a pinch of black pepper Add the mixture to soups and salads or eat with green tea. Frequency: As often as possible.
IT STRENGTHENS IMMUNITY: 1/3 cup turmeric + 2/3 cup water Mix together. Heat up in a saucepan for 10 minutes. Store the mixture in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator. Dilute 1-2 tsp of the paste in a glass of warm milk, and add a little honey. Frequency: Once a day. Every 3-4 hours if sick.
Preview photo credit Depositphotos
