An Herbalist Point Of View
The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Turmeric: Uses and Benefits for the Skin
What's The Tea on Turmeric root? Turmeric root is a well known spice to many, commonly used in Asian cuisine and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. What most people want to know is what exactly are the anti-Inflammatory benefits and uses of Turmeric Root? This bright yellow spice contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation throughout the body. In this article, we'll explore the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, its uses, and its benefits for the skin.
Inflammation is a natural process in the body that helps the immune system fight off harmful pathogens. However, chronic inflammation can lead to several diseases, including cancer, arthritis, and heart disease. Curcumin works by blocking the molecules that cause inflammation, which reduces the risk of chronic inflammation and related diseases. Let's dive deepper into the anti-inflammatory effects of tumeric. One study published in the National Library of Medicine found that curcumin was effective in reducing inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis. Curcumin also inhibited the growth of cancer cells and reduced inflammation in the body.
Turmeric's Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for the Skin
Turmeric has become a popular ingredient in the beauty industry for its ability to improve skin health. Here are some of the benefits of turmeric for the skin:
- Reduces acne: Turmeric has anti-bacterial properties that help reduce acne and pimples. It reduces oil secretion from the sebaceous glands, which helps prevent acne.
- Brightens skin: Turmeric has skin brightening properties that help improve skin complexion. It reduces dark circles and hyper pigmentation.
- Anti-aging properties: Turmeric has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It stimulates the production of collagen, which helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Inflammation: may help reduce redness and swelling associated with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
Inflammation can contribute to a variety of skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential treatment for these conditions. Did you know that turmeric has been shown to have antioxidant properties as well? These properties can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
The benefits of Turmeric and its active compound curcumin have been reviewed by many. National Library Of Medicine wrote an article titled " Turmeric and Its Major Compound Curcumin on Health: Bioactive Effects and Safety Profiles for Food, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnological and Medicinal Applications". In this study they reference several other studies that have shown that curcumin has a great potential for treating numerous inflammatory diseases.
10 ways to reap the Anti-Inflammatory Benefits and Uses of Turmeric:
- As a spice: The most common way to use turmeric root is as a spice in cooking. Add it to curries, soups, stews, rice dishes, and even smoothies for a boost of flavor and health benefits.
- As a tea: Turmeric tea is a delicious and healthy way to consume this root. Simply boil fresh turmeric root in water, strain, and enjoy with a bit of honey or lemon.
- In a salad dressing: Mix turmeric root with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs to create a tasty and healthy salad dressing
- In a marinade: Mix turmeric root with other spices, olive oil, and vinegar to create a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu.
- In a smoothie: Add fresh or powdered turmeric root to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra boost of nutrients.
- In a face mask: Can be used as an ingredient in any DIY face mask to help reduce inflammation and brighten the skin.
- In a hair mask: Mix turmeric root with coconut oil and honey to create a nourishing hair mask that can help promote healthy hair growth.
- In a supplement: Turmeric root supplements are available in capsule form, making it easy to consume for those who don't like the taste.
- In a latte: Turmeric lattes have become popular in recent years, and for good reason. The warm and comforting drink is a delicious way to consume turmeric root and reap its health benefits.
- In a pickling solution: Turmeric root can be added to a pickling solution for a unique and flavorful twist on pickled vegetables, like carrots or cauliflower.
- In a tincture: Adding fresh or dried turmeric can be added to 100% grain vodka. Sealed and keep in a dark space or cabinet for 4 to 6 weeks. Even thought starting a tincture can take time, it produces a concentrated form of the herb by extracting the medicinal properties for easy use while on the go.
- In Honey: adding powered turmeric to your favorite honey, for a quick easy way to get your daily spoon full of turmerics anti-inflammatory properties.
A message from the Herbalist:
Hey Herbies, I am sure you can come up with many ways to incorporate turmeric into you daily regimen. Turmeric is a very versatile spice with powerful anti-inflammatory properties as you can see. It's benefits extend far beyond the kitchen and can even be used to improve skin health as well. We've got some create home herbalist and I love to hear all the many ways you use turmeric. Make sure not to leave with out checking in.
How do you use turmeric?
I'm sure our community of loyal Herbies would love to learn new way to use turmeric as well.
Comment below & thanks for taking the time to sip alittle tea with me!
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Remember to seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical condition. The FDA has not evaluated statements made in this article regarding the safety and efficacy of turmeric supplements.