Acne begins with the sebaceous glands overproducing oil, which prevents dead skin cells from being shed properly. These cells clog pores and create a favorable environment for anaerobic bacteria that causes acne. Applying the spice turmeric in a paste solution is an alternative remedy for relieving mild to moderate acne.
Identification
Turmeric, with the botanical name Curcuma longa, is a plant in the ginger family. Turmeric powder is used in curries and in other Asian and Middle Eastern recipes. It also can be used as a replacement for the more expensive saffron spice. Traditionally in the Middle East and Asia, turmeric has also been used for its antibacterial properties, including treatment of acne.
Application
Different herbal soaps which contain turmeric are available for purchase, such as Auromere, Vedanta and Santoor. You also can make your own turmeric paste to use as an acne remedy with a mixture of turmeric and sesame oil. The paste can be left on for several hours or even overnight, but because turmeric has an intense yellow color, you should protect the pillow with another covering.
Turmeric and Neem
Another Indian acne remedy, neem (botanical name Azadirachta indica), can be combined with turmeric as an acne remedy. Like turmeric, neem herbal soaps are available commercially, and turmeric can be mixed with neem oil for a paste and applied topically.
Ayurveda
Ayurvedic medicine views eating turmeric spice as beneficial for eliminating toxins from the body and thus potentially reducing acne. In the Ayurvedic view, acne is related to imbalances in the doshas, as well as to impurities in the blood caused by the impurities in clogged pores. Turmeric can be added as a flavorful spice to food or can be purchased in capsules at health food stores. Ayurveda also recommends eating ginger and cumin along with turmeric for treating acne.
Expert Insight
A study published in a 2007 issue of the "Indian Journal of Dermatology" found no statistical difference among participants with acne who used turmeric and those who did not. However, because turmeric and sesame oil are relatively inexpensive and can be used for cooking, a person with acne might want to give the homemade paste a try.
Tags: acne remedy, because turmeric, botanical name, herbal soaps, turmeric paste, turmeric sesame