Turmeric is an Indian spice, popularly known for its antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
Turmeric benefits are not limited to the kitchen, where it is used to add colour and flavor to the food, but extend to its oral and topical use. Over time, advances in science have proven the broad spectrum of beneficial effects turmeric has on human health.
Turmeric is a natural antibiotic. It holds strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help fight diseases and maintain a strong immune system. Turmeric is also very effective in the treatment of many skin problems, such as acne, hyperpigmentation and dry skin.
This article lists 7 impressive turmeric benefits for skin you must know. Have a look.
#1: Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which dark patches appear on the skin due to excess melanin production. Melanin production increases due to various factors, including too much sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes and aging.
According to studies, the curcumin in turmeric suppresses the activity of enzymes involved in melanin synthesis. Thus it stops the inception of hyperpigmentation.
Curcumin also works remarkably well to lighten the appearance of existing scars and dark spots.
Did You Know?
Melanin is a pigment that determines the colour of human skin. Up to an extent, it also protects the skin from sun’s harmful UV rays.
#2: Prevents Acne Breakouts
Turmeric is a wonderful natural remedy to treat acne. It effectively reduces the presence of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and painful pus-filled lumps that appears on several parts of the face due to acne breakout. It has potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties that prevents the acne-causing bacteria from spreading further.
Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe acne-causing inflammation and heal the skin.
#3: Lightens Dark Circles
Dark circles are formed due to various reasons, such as lack of sleep, increased stress, hormonal changes, heredity, aging, and nutritional deficiencies. While they are not dangerous, they may indicate health problems and make a huge difference in one’s appearance.
Turmeric is very effective in reducing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Studies have indicated that herbal extracts with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as curcumin, act significantly in reducing the formation of dark circles.
#4: Conditions Dry Skin
When the skin loses its natural moisture, it also loses elasticity and splits easily when stretched or put under pressure. This results in a condition where the skin becomes dry and feel extremely dull and itchy.
Turmeric alleviates the symptoms of dryness and helps nourish the skin. Studies indicate that turmeric extracts are beneficial in improving sebum composition and moisture in the skin.
Did You Know?
Curcumin, the bioactive compound found in turmeric, has a rich history of therapeutic use in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
#5: Treats Stretch Marks
Turmeric helps ease the struggle of getting rid of the stretch marks that appear on the stomach, arms, or legs, when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly.
It has natural bleaching properties that gradually lightens the stretch marks when used on regular basis.
#6: Fights Early Signs of Ageing
The antioxidants present in turmeric protects the skin from sun’s harmful UV rays – one of the key contributors to premature ageing. They also prevent free radicals from damaging the elasticity and texture of the skin.
Another key benefit of turmeric is its ability to prevent the loss of skin’s elasticity and collagen.
According to studies, turmeric slows down the activity of elastase, an enzyme responsible for wrinkling and/or sagging of the skin. It also inhibits matrix metalloproteinase–2 (MMP–2), another enzyme that breaks down collagen, which provides structural support to the skin.
#7: Treats Skin Conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis
Eczema and Psoriasis are skin conditions that causes inflamed, itchy patches on the skin, most commonly on the scalp, elbows and knees. Studies have shown that oral and topical use of turmeric can significantly lessen the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.
Turmeric is one of the highest antioxidant containing herb. It also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that makes it a potent herbal remedy for complementary treatment of such skin conditions.
Final Take
Because of its acne-clearing, skin-brightening and anti-aging properties, turmeric is fast becoming a favorite ingredient of the beauty industry. While its unlikely that turmeric can cause a reaction on the skin, it can pretty much stain everything it comes in contact with. So if you have a fair complexion, be cautious while using turmeric to avoid having a yellow-tinted skin.
