​7 Lesser-known ways to use leftover curd beyond the kitchen​

Right from adding a twist of taste to curries to making a simple raita or preparing a delicious smoothie or lassi, curd is a quintessential element of most delicacies and has been used extensively in Indian cooking. But there are times when we end up keeping curd for days in the refrigerator and then discarding this leftover curd as it may look unfit for consumption, but do you know this sour, old, leftover curd can be used in multiple ways that are too beyond cooking? Well, here are some smart ways to reuse old curd and make the most of this leftover curd!

Combining leftover curd with sugar, honey and oatmeal together can work like a gentle exfoliating scrub. This is because lactic acid in curd helps remove dead skin cells, while the sugar or oats provide texture that helps in better exfoliation. Massage the mixture onto your face or body in circular motions to scrub away dirt and grime.

Two- to three-day-old curd can also be used as a culture to set fresh curd. This culture has ample active bacteria that help better formation of curd when mixed with lukewarm milk.

Leftover curd can be used to make a simple hair mask; just combine curd with mashed bananas, honey, or olive oil, whisk it well and apply it to dry hair. Keep it for 20-30 minutes, and then wash it with shampoo, as this will leave the hair feeling soft, shiny, and healthy.

Following too much time in the sun, curd can help alleviate irritated, sunburned skin. The anti-inflammatory property, due to its coolness, decreases the intensity of the inflamed skin. Just apply a thin layer directly on sunburned skin for about 15 minutes before washing to relieve the redness and associated discomfort.

Its antibacterial property also helps to get rid of acne-prone skin. Mix old curd with turmeric or neem powder and make a paste. Apply this as a face pack; this will reduce acne and inflamed skin, and, in time, you'll be rewarded with clearer skin.

If your pet has irritated or dry skin, curd can help to soothe it. Rub a thin layer of curd onto the irritated area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. The anti-inflammatory properties in curd will help to calm irritated skin and assist the healing process.

For tired, dry feet, make a soothing foot soak using leftover curd. Add a few tablespoons of curd to warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. The lactic acid helps to exfoliate dead skin, while the moisture in curd softens and hydrates rough feet.