Bagdara Haldi

It is no secret that herbs and spices can lift any bland meal to a delicious experience. Apart from activating the taste buds by inducing a ‘good-feel’ factor, a well spiced meal also enhances our health in so many ways. Spices are most beneficial when they constitute a small part of our overall diet plan and of course, lifestyle. One potent spice which plays a significant role is turmeric. Apart from being a staple spice for all kinds of Indian cuisines, it is known to have medicinal properties and even used as offerings in religious ceremonies. Turmeric in cosmetics has numerous uses with immense health benefits for hundreds of years. By virtue of it having the vital vitamins, minerals, fibre and photochemical properties, it provides immunity to our bodies thereby providing protection against diseases and also destroying chronic disease cells within the brain and body.

• The various bacteria and fungi which cause so many illnesses like cold, flu etc are potently destroyed by the antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties of turmeric. Drinking a glass of turmeric milk is a well known natural way to enhance immunity.
• Turmeric powder can be mixed in plain water or milk for treating diarrhea and the same should be taken regularly. The anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties help kill the infectious bacteria, virus and parasites of the intestine which cause diarrhea.
• It is a often repeated adage that yellow colored food should not be consumed when suffering from jaundice. However, turmeric facilitates jaundice treatment and a glass of warm water with a pinch of turmeric 2-3 times a day is a step in the right direction.
• Intestinal worms/parasites can be removed by adding turmeric to food or having a glass of water with turmeric. This has known to yield quick results.
• Turmeric facilitates reduction in inflammation of conjunctiva. Cotton balls soaked in turmeric water (2 teaspoons in a cup of boiled water) and compressed on the affected eye is a known and proven remedy.
• Research has revealed that turmeric tea is effective in preventing cancer, menstrual cramps and heavy flow. It is also a potent ‘home’ medicine for treatment of arthritis, enhances bone health, aids in eliminating toxic substances from the body, provides relief from pain and aches and detoxifies liver. (To prepare turmeric tea, mix turmeric and milk and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Then add cinnamon or cloves, a piece of ginger  and honey for sweetness. Strain it after a few minutes, boil and drink).
• For countless years, turmeric is known to be very effective for treating pimple and acne. It functions on the fact that it removes excess oil thereby opening clogged pores which cause acne and pimples. While Its anti-inflammatory property reduces acne inflammation, its anti-bacterial property destroys the bacteria which causes acne. Acne can be treated by using a face pack comprising of sandalwood and turmeric powder.
• Facial hair can be got rid off by scrubbing a combination of turmeric powder and gram flour (besan) with milk and applying on the affected part.  Massage in circular motions. It takes around 4 weeks for a visible effect.
• Stretch marks, which are common during puberty and pregnancy, are a common occurrence. To lighten them, one can add turmeric in creams or then make a paste of milk and turmeric, curd and turmeric or lemon juice, turmeric and milk. Massaging daily with any of these mixtures greatly helps fade stretch marks.
• Antiseptic property of turmeric facilitates healing of burns apart from reducing inflammation and pain. Turmeric can be mixed with cold water or aloe vera gel and applied 2-3 times a day on the wounds. Further, turmeric and manuka honey paste is known to reduce scaring  burn marks.
• Due to their antioxidant properties, both, turmeric and milk eliminate free radicals. Further, turmeric milk helps in treating cough and cold, and indigestion as well. Being a great detoxifier, it purifies blood and gives us healthy glowing skin. Add half teaspoon of turmeric powder to 250 ml milk and let the mixture boil for 10-15 minutes till the milk turns yellowish in color. Ginger or honey could be added for additional benefits as well.

Adulteration of turmeric with synthetic colors is common. It should be ensured that the turmeric being used is pure. When cooking with turmeric, always add black pepper to increase its bioavailability and improved absorption.