If you’ve been reading this blog for quite a while, you’re probably already familiar with the wonderful benefits and uses of turmeric.
Research on this ancient spice commonly used in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic practices continues to mount, establishing it as protective of the cardiovascular system,[1] supporter of healthy cholesterol levels,[2] and a potent free radical scavenger.[3]
Turmeric may keep you looking young, possibly slowing down the rate at which the skin ages. Is it time to start adding this yellow spice to your beauty regimen?
Turmeric is one of the highest antioxidant-containing spices on the ORAC scale — Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. This measures the amount and activity of antioxidants in foods. Turmeric comes in at number six in the list of herbs and spices with the highest antioxidants, just under cloves (the highest) and cinnamon.[4] Antioxidants are essential for protecting the integrity of the skin by preventing free radicals from destroying its texture and elasticity.
Antioxidants also protect the skin from ultraviolet light, one of the key contributors to the visible signs of aging.[5] But don’t think that turmeric’s anti-aging power is just about the antioxidants – far from it. Research shows that turmeric inhibits a key enzyme (elastase) that reduces the ability of elastin from forming.[6] Elastin, along with collagen, is a protein needed for making the skin smooth and pliable, and also helps it to retain its original position when pinched. In fact, turmeric, in vitro, may inhibit elastase by up to 65 percent.[7]
While looking young is certainly helpful, it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. True youthfulness comes from feeling young because without energy, vibrancy, and emotional wellbeing, life can be dull and unexciting. We now know that emotions are strong determinants in how the physical body ages, so incorporating tactics to keep you mentally and emotionally well is extremely important for a high quality of life.
Turmeric's oothing properties have shown some promise recently in lifting mood, keeping the blues at bay, and helping with daily stress.[8, 9, 10] While serotonin and other brain chemicals are involved, it may also reduce redness and swelling associated with some of these issues.
If you’re attempting to use turmeric as a skin health supplement to counter visible signs of aging, you can either use it topically or internally. As a topical adjunct to your current skin regimen, you can make a facial mask by mixing together 1 teaspoon turmeric powder with 1 teaspoon raw honey and ½ teaspoon coconut oil. Apply to the skin for 10 to 20 minutes and wash off with a natural soap. Since turmeric can stain, your skin may look yellowish for a time, so do this routine only one to two times a week at night.
You can also use a high-quality turmeric extract in liquid form for topical and internal preparations. Liquid extracts generally provide a higher concentration of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds compared with powder. I recommend Global Healing's certified organic Turmeric Raw Herbal Extract™. This superior blend is combined with Black pepper for optimal absorption.
How do you use turmeric? We’d love to hear your suggestions!
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