Turmeric for Treating Cysts

Turmeric (or Indian saffron) is a spice most often used in Indian cooking. It is bright yellow in color and comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. Turmeric flesh has a hard, brownish skin. Turmeric has been used as a condiment, textile dye and healing remedy. For use in alternative medicine, turmeric root is dried and then formed into powder, capsules, teas or liquid extracts.

Cysts are growths covered with a membrane and appear on the surface of organs, muscles and skin. While they generally are not harmful, they can be unsightly. Cysts often have a bloated appearance because they often are filled with air or fluids. They can be removed surgically if necessary, or they can be treated topically. Because turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric powder paste can be used topically in the treatment of cysts.

Turmeric paste is made by putting 3 tbsp. of turmeric powder and 3 cups of water in a small saucepan. Place the mixture over medium low heat; allow it to boil until it becomes a thick paste. Boil it for at least eight minutes, adding water if needed. Boiling releases the essences of the turmeric, which are needed for their healing properties. Once the paste is made, it can be stored in a refrigerator for about two weeks.

Cool the paste completely before use. Apply a light coating of it to a cyst, covering the cyst completely. Use caution because the paste's yellow color can stain fabric. Cover the coated cyst with gauze. Reapply the paste each day as needed. Turmeric use for cysts generally is recommended for one month.