Turmeric is an aromatic, medicinal plant known to Indians since ancient times. Some say that South Asia is where turmeric was first discovered where it then spread outward to areas in South East Asia and grew wildly in the forest regions. The word turmeric originates from the Latin word ‘Terra Merrita’ which is directly translated to mean sacred soil. This is probably attributed to its soil like appearance and bright yellow/ orange color. Its widely cultivated in India, Taiwan, Peru and many parts of Africa.

Curcumin which is the main ingredient in powdered turmeric, is considered the most important chemical compound in the spice. Oils extracted from Turmeric are also widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. In India, turmeric is used in ayurvedic rituals and is present in many medicines made under the Indian systems of healing. Some Indian traditions went as far as to name turmeric a ‘divine plant’ given to human beings by the 'gods'. YES, Turmeric adds colour and flavour to various dishes but its additional benefits thanks to the active curcumin ingredient cannot be underestimated.

Homemade Turmeric Tonic- Click here for the recipe!

Turmeric Latte anyone? Click here for the recipe!

Health Benefits

• Cure burns
• Elimination of toxins
• Reduces inflammation
• Increases the antioxidant capacity of the body
• Improves brain function
• Lowers the risk of brain disease
• Lowers the risk of heart disease

Turmeric & Plain Yogurt Face Mask

This spice also has proven beauty benefits. One of the ways you can maximize the benefits is by adding it as one of the key ingredients into a face mask. The ingredients in this mask are all great for the overall outward health of our skin. Plain yogurt when used externally, aids in:-
1. Moisturized skin
2. Reduced wrinkles and fine lines
3. Improvement in acne
4. Faded blemishes and pigmentation
5. Reduced dark circles under the eye
6. Healing of skin infections
7. Soothing of sunburn.

Preparation
- Take a clean bowl
- Pour 1 tablespoon of turmeric into the bowl
- Pour 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt into the bowl
- Mix both ingredients until the mixture is a smooth paste
- Apply evenly all over you face
- Let it dry
- Wash off with warm water after 30 minutes

Yours in Wellness

@tizitalks

Credits

Wellness Editor: Nyambura Kamotho

Photography: Strikingly, Pexel, Mashed, Minimalist Baker, Georgia Pallegrini

Subscribe below to get our newsletters directly into your email.