Turmeric, or Haldi, is one of the best known spices used in Indian cooking. But did you know, it also has so many health boosting qualities, that it is worth its weight in gold! It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial and cytotoxic (tumor-fighting) effects. 

The main constituent of turmeric is curcumin, which has lot of
therapeutic effects. It is a strong antioxidant and reduces
inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Here's how Turmeric is useful for us --

• Taking turmeric regularly helps to purify the blood and is good for the liver.
  
• Turmeric when added to beans and pulses can help to reduce gas and bloating
  
• Turmeric contains compounds that herbalists use to treat and
  prevent conditions of the liver such as hepatitis, cirrhosis and
  jaundice.
• Very beneficial for people suffering from digestive and gall
  bladders problems as it helps to break down fats during the process of
  digestion.
• Taking turmeric mixed with milk not only heals the wounds, but also treats high blood pressure.
  
• It helps in reducing cholesterol levels and prevents the internal blood clots that trigger strokes and heart attacks.
  
• Boil turmeric powder in water. Gargles of this cold and decanted water are beneficial in stomatitis and ulcers of the tongue.
  
• Roast turmeric, grind it to make a fine powder. This powder can be applied to treat toothache.
  
• External application of turmeric paste cures eczemas and skin ailments.
  
• Turmeric (especially fresh) mixed in warm milk helps in chest congestions and asthma.
  
• It is commonly used in common cold, fever and inflammations.
  
• Turmeric powder increases the mucus content in gastric juices and hence acts against gastric disorders.
  
• A pinch of turmeric powder with warm water helps in stomach ache.
  
• Turmeric is used to treat minor cuts and burns since it has antiseptic and microbial properties.
  
• Turmeric also helps in regulating reproductive system of women.

• It can heal and prevent dry and patched skin.
  
• When turmeric is mixed with milk, it becomes a natural
  cleanser. It also brings a healthy glow to the skin. It is a very
  important ingredient for face creams and body lotions.
  
• Paste made with fuller’s earth (Multani mitti), Turmeric
  powder, yogurt, rosewater can be applied to face to get a clear and
  glowing complexion.
  
• A pinch of turmeric powder mixed with a tablespoon of coriander juice and gram flour is an effective remedy for pimples.
  
• In South India turmeric paste is applied by women all over
  their bodies before a bath since it improves the complexion and has
  depilatory properties..