Turmeric: so, is the Indian spice a beauty miracle… or a herbal myth?

All of a sudden, turmeric is everywhere. It is heaped into our health food and stirred in our smoothies. It's in our curries and even in our cocktails. 

But not only does the Indian plant make our food taste better, it claims to have amazing health and beauty benefits too, from reducing inflamation to fighting cancer.

But can this yellow spice really live up to all it is said to? 

Turmeric is known as curcuma longa in India and is a member of the ginger root family.

More than 4,000 years ago it was first used as a dye for cloths, then for food seasoning and later it was used for treating a number of ailments.

Here's a list of some of its uses in the beauty world that might make you in favour of using the yellow stuff…

 

Use it to treat wrinkles

For an effective face mask that will reduce the appearance of wrinkles, mix turmeric, flour, yoghurt and some fresh avocado into a paste. Apply to skin and leave on for ten minutes. Wash it off and see how it tightens your skin. Amazing!

 

Fight acne

Turmeric is a great remedy for fighting acne due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Applying turmeric to the skin can not only help with acne scars but it will also reduce the oil that comes from your glands, to keep the acne at bay. 

 

Facial hair

If you mix turmeric with chickpeas and mix it into a paste, it can prevent growth of facial hair. You will have to do it constantly for about a month to see results though. 

 

Boost immunity

Another great supposed health benefit is that it can boost your immune system. It contains a substance called lipopolysaccharide, which stimulates the immune system and in turn helps your body fight off infections like coughs, colds or the flu. 

 

Treats dandruff

Applying a mixture of turmeric and coconut oil and apply to your hair. Leave in for about 20 minutes and wash thoroughly throughout. This will get the circulation in your scalp going, helping fight away dandruff and nourish your hair.