Would you like to take a trip to a high-end spa, but can’t because, oh yeah, you have kids? No problem, turn your home into a spa with turmeric powder, a precious golden spice. Many may have heard of the ancient spice Turmeric, but the health benefits have been minimally understood until now.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a spice which is commonly utilized in Indian cooking. It contains a golden-yellow colored chemical known as curcumin, which gives some foods and cosmetics their color. For an endless number of years, turmeric has been known to be a magical fix for “everything.” It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and can help relieve symptoms related to a wide variety of issues, such as swelling, arthritis, acne, heartburn, joint pain, stomach pain, headaches, colds, depression…and the list goes on! Sounds too good to be true, but they call it a magical spice for a reason.
Turmeric comes in a root form, similar to the look of ginger. The most common form is turmeric powder, however. To achieve this, turmeric root is dried in the sun and then grated into a powder form.
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According to WebMD, turmeric is a fairly safe spice with minimal side effects. Rarely, people can experience an upset stomach, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea. It is also known to be fairly safe during pregnancy and for breastfeeding mothers. But this does not replace the opinion of your physician!
Although anyone can use turmeric powder in their life, busy moms may quickly realize how helpful it is to include turmeric powder in their daily routine. There are two modern ways to utilize this spice to bring healthy benefits:
Face Mask:
Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water until it reaches a smooth, paste-like consistency. Alternatively, mix a small amount of turmeric powder with plain yogurt until it reaches a smooth, paste-like consistency (yogurt contains natural antibacterial properties, further assisting in cleansing the skin; also very moisturizing!).
Once the desired consistency has been reached, apply the paste to a clean, dry face, avoiding the eye area. After twenty minutes (or once the paste dries on the face), wash thoroughly with lukewarm water, THEN splash with cold water (did you know cold water helps close pores!), pat dry and follow with your favorite skincare products. This can be repeated a few times a week as turmeric powder has little-to-no side effects.
Watch out though; turmeric can be tricky as it may stain! If it gets on surfaces such as the countertop, wipe clean immediately (Lysol wipes work great). If turmeric powder gets onto clothing, don’t worry, this is the easiest type of turmeric stain to get out! Simply spot-wash the clothing in the sink and let it dry outdoors; the rays of the sun (even if it’s cloudy) will literally evaporate the stain away!
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Golden Milk Latte
Moms are busy! But moms need their latte. Because too much coffee isn’t the healthiest option (especially for breastfeeding mamas), turmeric powder lattes are an excellent alternative to that second cup of coffee.
Recipe: On the stove top, bring one cup (or however many cups you’re wanting!) of milk and a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a boil, stirring often. To taste, honey and/or cinnamon can be added. Remove from the stove, pour into a cup, and sip sip!
Some may find this an acquired taste, but knowing the benefits, the taste won’t bother! This golden milk latte is not exactly full caffeine, but it is far more beneficial to keep mamas moving throughout the day. It is excellent for easing inflammation in the body, preventing constipation, improving immunity, and helping maintain normal blood sugar levels…all of which help keep that much-needed energy at an all-time high through a busy mama’s day!
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Additional Uses for Turmeric Powder
Sleep is not exactly of royal quality when it comes to mothers, especially new mothers. Poor sleep quality means higher chances of anxiety, which puts the body in fight-or-flight mode. This can often result in sickness. Acting as an immunity booster, turmeric powder certainly aids in keeping sickness at a low.
Turmeric powder further improves brain function and memory (did somebody say mom brain?) and balances out dopamine (the pleasure chemical) to healthy levels. This certainly helps beat the postpartum baby blues! For those who are breastfeeding, this golden milk latte can be effective in increasing milk production as well. Some believe this is true as it helps keep mastitis at a low and prevents clogged ducts, thus allowing milk to flow more freely. Turmeric powder is beneficial at any point in life, but especially during pregnancy and post-delivery.
Hormonal skin differences are a real concern for some, especially after child-birth. Whether applying turmeric to the face or drinking it, it will help reduce the appearance of dull, dry skin, lighten scars, reduce wrinkles…ultimately making the skin plump and radiant. The golden milk latte also helps reduce inflammation in the body that many women gain from pregnancy and delivery. Oftentimes, mamas-to-be are glowing during pregnancy but lose that gorgeous glow after delivery. These easy and inexpensive DIY at home recipes are a great way to keep up that mommy glow even after your little one enters the world.
Next time you wish you could visit a spa, but can’t, just remember you can use turmeric powder to get a spa-like experience right at home.
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Here are 5 tasty spices and their potential health benefits you can add to your everyday meals.
Photo Credits: Hilary Hahn | Osha Key | Chinh Le Duc
Sources: Living and Loving
