Turmeric oil: Uses and benefits
What exactly is turmeric oil good for, and why is it gaining popularity? Here’s a quick but thorough guide to this golden essential oil.
How long have people been using turmeric oil?
Turmeric use goes back thousands of years. Historically, it’s believed that turmeric has been valued for over 4,000 years as both a medicinal remedy and a spiritual aid. In India, it’s long been used not just as a culinary spice but in Ayurvedic medicine—dating as far back as 500 BC.
Turmeric powder comes from the root of Curcuma zedoaria, a type of ginger native to Southeast Asia. When the roots are dried and ground, they become the vibrant yellow powder we recognize. The compound curcumin is what gives turmeric its color and many of its therapeutic qualities.
How is it made?
Turmeric oil is typically produced by steam distillation of the turmeric root. This process concentrates the plant’s essential oils, capturing its potency and aroma.
Turmeric essential oil uses
Turmeric oil is incredibly versatile. Here’s how it can be used:
Massage it
Mix 5 drops of turmeric oil with 10ml of a base oil and massage into the skin. According to Vincent Carrié, massage with turmeric oil may support the body’s natural recovery and help maintain skin elasticity and firmness.
Bathe in it
Draw a warm bath, add 4 to 6 drops of turmeric oil, and soak for at least 10 minutes. The aroma is believed to help calm the senses and relax the body.
Inhale it
Take in the earthy fragrance by inhaling directly from the bottle or applying a few drops to a cloth or tissue. The scent is thought to provide a comforting, energizing lift for the body and mind.
Apply it
Use it as a face mask—just make sure to wash it off after, as it may temporarily stain the skin. Combine 2 to 3 drops with a carrier oil such as tamanu oil. It can also be applied to cracked heels after a warm foot soak. Rub a blend of turmeric oil and a carrier oil like castor onto the heels weekly to help soften the skin.
Turmeric oil benefits
Rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties, turmeric essential oil offers several potential benefits:
- Acne relief: Turmeric oil blended with coconut, olive, jojoba, or apricot oil can help dry out blemishes and limit further breakouts due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Dandruff control: A few drops massaged into the scalp before washing may help fight flakes and support healthy hair growth.
- Sunburn care: Research suggests turmeric has photoprotective qualities. Mixing 30 drops of turmeric oil into 250ml of aloe vera gel and applying it to affected skin can help with hydration and oil balance.
- Inflammation support: The active components in turmeric oil may help ease feelings of inflammation when used topically.
How to use it safely
Always dilute turmeric essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin, and perform a patch test beforehand to check for any sensitivity. Follow all usage directions provided on the product label.
Some interesting facts about turmeric
- In Ayurveda, turmeric has over 100 names, including 'jayanti', meaning 'victorious over diseases', and 'matrimanika', or 'beautiful as moonlight.'
- Curcumin, the active compound, is believed to brighten pigmentation and even skin tone.