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The plant is used as an anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antihelmintic, bactericide, fungicide, stimulant and for treating sprains, ringworms, scabies, neuralgia and rheumatism. It is also used as an insect repellent. The dried tumeric rhizome is commonly used as a condiment and to prepare a yellow color dye. In Malaysia, tumeric is used as a cosmetic during traditional ceremonies. It is an important ingredient in local cooking, eg curry. Tumeric prepared with oil is used to smoothen rough skin, and with lime, it is used to treat bruises sprains and wounds. A decoction made from tumeric is used as a cooling eye-wash. Tumeric boiled with milk and sugar is a popular remedy for colds. When mixed with sesame oil and honey, it is used as a tonic. A poultice of the rhizomes is applied to the breast for stimulating milk flow.
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