If you can only use one spice for the rest of your life, make it turmeric. Its golden, gritty appearance looks intimidating, but it is a gentle, gentle substance. Turmeric hails from India and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since 500 BCE. It contains an insane amount of antioxidants and also contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Some even say it works better than most over-the-counter medications. Now, we're not saying that turmeric can solve every ailment, but early research shows it may be a promising solution to help with a lot of problems with very few (if any) side effects.




We all know turmeric is a great spice for cooking, with its warm, fragrant flavor profiles. But it it can also hold an important place in your beauty routine. With its anti-inflammatory benefits showing impressive results through both consumption and topical use, turmeric might become the new health product your can't live without. Here are all the uses for the seemingly-magical spice that you need to know about.

Fight inflammation with golden milk

One of the best ways to integrate turmeric in your health and beauty routine is to ingest it, which is why golden milk is one of our favorite beverages. Mix turmeric and honey into heated coconut or almond milk and enjoy! Not only does it taste yummy, but studies show that it helps fight inflammation from the inside out. We swear, it helps us sleep better, too.


It makes a great face mask

There are endless face masks you can make with turmeric, but some of our favorites are simple: turmeric and honey, or turmeric and plain yogurt. Mix into a paste, apply for 15-20 minutes, and rinse. Turmeric is among the list of herbs that have shown to have topical healing properties. Making a facial mask using turmeric can reduce redness and inflammation, ease blemishes, and prevent wrinkles. Pro tip: don't leave it on for too long because it can temporarily tint your skin yellow!

Heal burns with a turmeric paste

If you've sustained a mild burn, turmeric can save the day. This study demonstrated significant healing when curcumin (a compound found in turmeric) was applied to wounds. Make a paste with turmeric powder and aloe vera gel (without alcohol). Apply to the burn, let sit, and gently rinse. Repeat as needed.

Use it as a dandruff remedy

Since turmeric has amazing anti-inflammatory properties, it's no surprise that it could ease an irritated scalp. Whether you're dealing with dandruff or buildup, a mixture of turmeric and coconut oil can sooth your scalp issues. Mix up a batch, slather it all over your head, and leave it on for 1-3 hours. Rinse with warm water and live a dandruff-free life.

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