Turmeric essential oil
Curcuma longa
Turmeric essential oil, derived from the roots of the Curcuma longa plant, has long been revered for its potent therapeutic properties. Known for its vibrant yellow-orange hue and warm, earthy aroma, turmeric is a staple in both culinary and medicinal traditions. The essential oil extracted from turmeric roots offers concentrated benefits, including powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. This guide explores the rich history, diverse uses, and profound effects of turmeric essential oil on the body, mind, and spirit.
The History of Turmeric Essential Oil
Turmeric has a history that spans thousands of years, particularly in South Asia, where it has played a central role in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. The plant’s origins trace back to India, where it has been cultivated and used for over 4,000 years. Ancient Ayurvedic texts mention turmeric as a key ingredient in remedies for various ailments, from digestive issues to skin conditions.
In addition to its medicinal uses, turmeric held religious and spiritual significance. It was used in sacred rituals, offerings, and ceremonies. The bright yellow color symbolized purity, fertility, and prosperity. Over time, turmeric spread to other parts of the world through trade routes, becoming a valuable commodity in Middle Eastern, African, and European cultures.
The distillation of turmeric essential oil began relatively recently compared to its powdered form. Modern extraction techniques allow for the isolation of its bioactive compounds, including turmerone and curcumin, making it a powerful addition to aromatherapy and holistic wellness.
Scent description
Warm, earthy, spicy, woody
Usage
Inhaled | topically | internally
Effects, use cases
Anti-inflammatory | detoxifying | antibacterial | antioxidant | expectorant | antivira | cancer therapy supplement | joint pain | arthritis | fungal infections | bacterial infections | viral infections | Alzheimer’s | stroke | liver cleanser | gallstone cleanser | intestinal worms | parasites | acne | eczema | depression | bloating | constipation | poor circulation | diabetes treatment supplement | sore muscles | cough | respiratory problems | tartar | oral care | insect repellent | flavoring
Disclaimer: always check the manufacturer's recommendation before using any essential oils internally or topically!
Warning, safety cautions
Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease, nor do they replace medications or therapies prescribed by a physician. They are not medicinal products and do not qualify as drugs. Based on experience, essential oils may have complementary therapeutic effects. If you are unsure about how an essential oil might affect you or your child, consult your general practitioner and/or a qualified aromatherapist. Before using any new essential oil (especially internally or directly on the skin), perform a patch test.
Use and health effects of turmeric essential oil
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The turmerones in turmeric essential oil exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it effective in alleviating conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness. Applying diluted turmeric oil topically can help reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery from injuries.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Turmeric essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Regular use of this oil may support healthy aging and protect against chronic diseases linked to oxidative damage, such as heart disease and cancer.
Digestive Support
In traditional medicine, turmeric has been used to aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. The essential oil can stimulate the production of bile, improve digestion, and alleviate symptoms of bloating and indigestion. Adding a drop of turmeric essential oil to a carrier oil and massaging it onto the abdomen may help ease digestive issues.
Immune System Booster
The antimicrobial properties of turmeric essential oil make it an effective immune booster. It can help protect against infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Diffusing turmeric oil during the cold and flu season can help purify the air and strengthen the respiratory system.
Neuroprotective Properties
Recent studies suggest that ar-turmerone in turmeric essential oil may support brain health by promoting the regeneration of neural cells. This makes it a promising natural remedy for neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Culinary uses
While turmeric essential oil is highly concentrated, it can be used sparingly in culinary applications. A single drop can add a warm, earthy flavor to dishes such as soups, stews, and curries. Always ensure that the oil is food-grade and use it in minimal amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.
How to use turmeric essential oil?
Fungal, bacterial or viral infections
Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule several times a day (maximum 20 drops of essential oil in 24 hours), or apply to the affected external area.
Blood purification, liver cleansing, detoxification
Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule several times a day (maximum 20 drops of essential oil in 24 hours), or massage into the soles of the feet.
Acne, eczema
Add a maximum of 1 drop to your facial/body care product and use on the affected area. Take 1-2 drops 2x a day.
Poor circulation, diabetes treatment supplement
Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule several times a day (maximum 20 drops of essential oil in 24 hours), or massage into the soles of the feet.
Cough, respiratory problems
Massage into your chest and back. Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule.
Tartar, oral health
Add 1 drop to your toothpaste when brushing your teeth. Add 1 drop to a glass of water and gargle, rinse with it.
Joint pain, arthritis
Apply directly to the affected area. Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule, several times a day (maximum 20 drops in 24 hours)
Alzheimer’s, stroke aftercare
Inhale directly from the palms, apply to the forehead and massage into the spine. Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule several times a day (maximum 20 drops/24 hours).
Parasites, intestinal worms
Take at least 2x 1-2 drops in an empty capsule daily.
Depression, anxiety
Use in a diffuser. Apply to your neck and nape of the neck.
Bloating, constipation
Take 1-2 drops in an empty capsule several times a day (maximum 20 drops of essential oil in 24 hours) or massage into your abdomen.
Sore muscles, menstrual cramps
Massage into the painful area with a carrier oil.
Insect repellent
Use with geranium, lemongrass for insect repellent.
Disclaimer: always check the manufacturer's recommendation before using any essential oils internally or topically!
Warning, safety cautions
Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease, nor do they replace medications or therapies prescribed by a physician. They are not medicinal products and do not qualify as drugs. Based on experience, essential oils may have complementary therapeutic effects. If you are unsure about how an essential oil might affect you or your child, consult your general practitioner and/or a qualified aromatherapist. Before using any new essential oil (especially internally or directly on the skin), perform a patch test.
Turmeric essential oil – spirituality and soul
In spiritual practices, turmeric has been considered a sacred substance. Its bright yellow color represents purity and divinity. In Hinduism, turmeric paste is applied to the skin during religious ceremonies and weddings to invoke blessings and protection. The essential oil can be used during meditation to promote a deeper connection with one’s inner self. Its grounding aroma helps center the mind, making it easier to achieve a meditative state. Additionally, it can be used to cleanse and purify spaces by diffusing or sprinkling diluted oil around the room.
Recommended manufacturers of Turmeric essential oil
dōTERRA
This essential oil is currently available from dōTERRA.
For further information, visit the dōTERRA website.
Young Living
Young Living is currently not selling this essential oil.
For further information, visit the Young Living website.
Contact info
Author:
Roseware Kft. - Réka Rózsáné Illés
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