Jan 21, 2011 @ 9:39

Whilst I am on the topic everything Indian, here’s another little magical herb that has caught the attention of almost everyone I know and meet here: Turmeric.

Turmeric, a yellow spice used in a lot of Indian cooking is an antiseptic and an antioxidant. It has been used in beauty treatments and has also been known to strengthen bones. Pure turmeric is the best, and can be made into a paste. It has been used in Ayurveda for centuries as it also has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Because turmeric is an excellent antioxidant it stabilizes unstable oxygen molecules. These are known as free radicals, and are what causes damage to cells, leading to ageing and various other diseases such as cancer.

In India, before a bride is to be married turmeric and gram flour (besan) mix is scrubbed onto her entire body leaving the skin soft and glowing. One application is not enough but on a regular basis the results are nothing short of extraordinary.

Other benefits include reduction in skin pigmentation when applied mixed with lemon. To strengthen bones, mix it with warm milk and drink it every night. This has been proven to help to fight osteoporosis.

Another natural home remedy straight from the Motherland!