The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s25.t2.2

c5.s25.t2.2

THE turmeric plant is extensively cultivated for the sake of its tubers which are an essential ingredient of native curry powders. Turmeric pounded into a paste and mixed with oil, is rubbed on the skin to improve its appearance and prevent skin diseases. The rubbing of turmeric and oil is an essential part of the Hindu marriage festival as well as of some religious ceremonies. Medicinally turmeric is used chiefly in skin diseases both externally and internally. Turmeric paste with the addition of a little lime is a popular application to sprains and bruises. A decoction of turmeric is used as a cooling wash in ophthalmia; cloth steeped in it is employed as an eye-shade. A paste of turmeric and the leaves of *Justicia Adhatoda* (*vásaka*), with cow's urine is rubbed on the skin in prurigo.¹ Several other combinations of the sort are in vogue, such as turmeric and nim leaves, turmeric and the ashes of the plantain tree, etc. Turmeric is also given internally with cow's urine in prurigo and eczema.²