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It has anti microbial properties. Susruta the father of Ayurvedic surgery recommends it for wound healing. For centuries it has been used for wound healing. It has also been found to be very effective against eye infections. Traditionally a paste made by mixing turmeric, besan or chick pea flour and warm ghee is applied on boils which have not ripened. This is then bandaged overnight. By the next day that boil would have ruptured.
Turmeric also promotes the growth of good intestinal bacteria and strengthens digestion. It also is a carminative and prevents gas formation and bloating. It is shown to have an effect on irritable bowel syndrome. In experimental studies it was shown that turmeric if taken regularly for a few weeks reduced the symptoms. It is considered to be hearty and helps improve the digestive fire. It also helps to repair mucous membranes and is found to heal digestive ulcers.
It also fortifies the joints and ligaments. A paste made of turmeric, lime and salt heals sprains and inflamed joints.
Turmeric promotes clear glowing skin. It has become one of the ingredients of face masks. In South India women usually apply a paste of it over the face. It not only gives a glow but also clears blemishes. It is a belief in India that if a pregnant lady consumes turmeric throughout her pregnancy then the baby will have a glowing blemish-free skin. Brides are traditionally given a haldi bath for a glowing skin and also to invoke the blessings of the Divine Mother.
Turmeric’s anti oxidative properties have also been very effective against congestion. Also smokers who take turmeric regularly have been found to have better lungs. Milk boiled with turmeric is found to be effective against colds.
Turmeric is also a very good hepatic tonic. It not only helps in regeneration of liver cells but also increases the production of bile and its transport. To boost the effect on the liver it should be taken in the mornings and evenings along with whey (the clear fluid generated after paneer is separated).
Turmeric is a very good insect repellant. If sprinkled all around the house it keeps ants away.
From an Ayurvedic perspective it helps to balance all the three dhoshas. It also has an effect on rakta (blood) and rasa (lymph and plasma) dhatus.
As Dr. David Frawley, one of the renowned Ayurvedic scholars, puts it—if I had only a single herb to depend upon for all possible health and dietary needs I would without hesitation choose the Indian spice turmeric.
Mrs. Mira Swami, Department of Ayurveda