Turmeric for Skin: What 18 Clinical Studies Tell Us

From the haldi ceremony before an Indian wedding to grandmother's paste for a pimple, turmeric — haridra in Ayurveda — is woven into how India cares for skin. But what does modern research actually say?

Turmeric in Ayurveda

Ayurveda describes haridra as warming, bitter and pungent, and uses it for skin complexion (varnya), itching and wounds. It is a core ingredient of traditional bridal pastes (ubtan) meant to leave the skin glowing.

The active compound: curcumin

Turmeric's yellow colour comes from curcuminoids, chiefly curcumin. In laboratory studies curcumin is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and it modulates several signalling pathways involved in skin inflammation.

What the clinical review found

In 2016, researchers at the University of California, Davis published a systematic review of clinical studies on turmeric and skin health. They identified 18 studies that met their criteria. The studies suggested statistically significant improvements in several skin conditions with turmeric or curcumin, used either on the skin or by mouth, including:

• acne
• facial photoaging (sun-related ageing)
• itching (pruritus)
• psoriasis
• skin reactions to radiation therapy
• vitiligo

The authors were careful to note that many studies were small and that larger, better-designed trials are needed. That is the honest position: promising, not proven.

Turmeric on the skin: practical tips

• Raw turmeric paste stains. It can leave a yellow tint on skin, nails and fabric. Mix with yoghurt or gram flour and rinse well.
• In soap, staining is not a problem. Turmeric is bound into the soap and rinses away with the lather.
• Patch-test. Turmeric allergy is uncommon but possible.
• Pair it with sunscreen. No herb replaces sun protection for spots and tan.

Turmeric in Anjenna

Anjenna Plus combines turmeric with neem and coconut oil in a handmade Grade 1 soap — the everyday way to keep haridra in your routine without the yellow fingers.

Reference: Vaughn AR, Branum A, Sivamani RK. Effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on skin health: a systematic review of the clinical evidence. Phytotherapy Research. 2016;30(8):1243–1264.