Turmeric has long been used in India for its medicinal value as well as a key ingredient in cooking. It is known to promote good health and healthy living. It has antiseptic properties and can be used even to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It is not only advantageous for your skin, but also has numerous health benefits, such as reducing pain and inflammations. It has been used since time immemorial in our food and has been grandma’s favourite ingredient for concocting a tonic for healthy living.
Turmeric essential oil is obtained from its root, which can be extracted easily. This oil is filled with healing qualities. It can help in treating inflammation, colds and flu as well can act as anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agent. Nowadays, it is also an important ingredient in perfumes for its aroma as well as anti-bacterial properties.
Turmeric oil, when analysed closely, has around 400 to 500 different types of molecules. The interesting thing to note here is these molecules have receptor sites in human neuro-endocrine system. Below is the constituency of turmeric essential oils:
- Sesquiterpene alcohol – 50%
- Zingeriberene and other Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons – 30%
- D-a-phellandrene – 4%
- Cineol – 3%
- D-sabinene – 2%
- D-borneol – 2.5%
- Valeric acid – 0.1%
Various Benefits of Turmeric Oil
Turmeric oil has several benefits. Some of these benefits are as follows:
1. As Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relieving Agent
Turmeric oil consists of excellent anti-inflammatory qualities because of the presence of 60-65% alpha-curcumene, a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon. The pain relieving formula and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric oil increase manifolds when the oil is mixed with other essential oils, such as Frankincense. It is also enormously effective in treating joint pains and arthritis. Turmeric oil helps in getting rid of muscle pains too.
2. Helps in Digestion
Turmeric oil contains Zingeriberene and other six gingerol compounds that help in maintaining the health of the digestive system. It also prevents gas and bloating in the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Advantages to the Liver
It contains a compound called Ar-turmerone, which plays an important role in supporting the liver and maintaining its well-being.
4. Fight Against Harsh Diseases
Turmeric oil has anti-cancer properties and hence, can be used by patients suffering from cancer. It has been used in treating Alzheimer’s disease. There is some evidence to show diabetics also benefit from the oil.
5. Skin Benefits
It has many skin-related benefits. The oil prevents aging and age-related issues, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Turmeric oil keeps your skin bright and prevents dark spots. It acts as an excellent anti-oxidant and makes the skin look younger. It is, thus, used in various skin care creams and formulas.
It also helps in prevention of acne because of its anti-bacterial qualities. It also helps in maintaining oil balance in the skin and hence, is well-suited for all skin types.
Stretch marks are a common issue women face after child birth. Turmeric oil lightens these stretch marks when mixed with chickpea (gram) flour and milk.
It is also used in treating cracked heels. It offers smooth heels when mixed with coconut oil and applied overnight.
6. Hair Benefits
Turmeric oil prevents dandruff and helps in keeping hair bright and shiny. Mix a little turmeric oil with olive oil and apply on the scalp. A regular use of these two oils will reduce dandruff in a month’s time.
Turmeric oil contains curcumin, which helps in treating hair loss. Mix turmeric oil with honey and milk and apply overnight for lush and lustrous hair growth.
7. To Fight Against Allergies
Turmeric oil is useful in fighting allergies and also acts as antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-parasitic, antiviral and anti-worm agent. It is considered to be good anti-venom and used in various drugs and ointments that are used as anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antiseptic solutions.
Points to Note:
- Like any other essential oil, turmeric oil has its own risks. One should remember since it comes in a highly concentrated form, its use should be limited. One should not use more than 5 drops of the oil, which should not be consumed or applied directly on the affected site. It is best to mix turmeric oil in water, honey or tea for consumption.
- Do a patch test with turmeric oil before you decide to apply it on your skin. It may cause a reaction on sensitive skin, especially against UV rays.
- Pregnant ladies should not use turmeric oil without consulting their doctor.