Should I be taking turmeric supplements? (2024)

FAQs

Is it good to take turmeric supplements everyday? ›

When taken by mouth: Turmeric is likely safe when used short-term. Turmeric products that provide up to 8 grams of curcumin daily seem to be safe when used for up to 2 months, Also, taking up to 3 grams of turmeric daily seems to be safe when used for up to 3 months. Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects.

Brown says turmeric supplements are probably not a good idea. As wonderful as turmeric's nutritional benefits can be, more curcumin is not necessarily better, and too much can be risky. For instance, turmeric supplements may increase your risk of kidney stones, especially if this runs in your family.

Although it is safe to eat foods with turmeric, pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take turmeric supplements. Because turmeric may act like a blood thinner, you should stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery. Tell your doctor and surgeon that you have been taking turmeric.

Through its rich and varied plant chemistry, it has a powerful anti-inflammatory (antioxidant) and immune-strengthening it can be a wonderful support for hormone balance at all life stages. Here are just a few of the ways turmeric is beneficial to women: Premenstrual symptoms and cycle balance.

Turmeric — and especially its most active compound, curcumin — has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer's and cancer. It's a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.

Turmeric may reduce the fat deposit in the body. It could help reduce body fat and body weight as per animal studies. You can mix some turmeric in a glass of warm water and take it every morning to reduce belly fat.

Mild side effects include upset stomach, acid reflux, diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches. Consuming large doses of turmeric supplements can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.

The antioxidant effect of turmeric appears to be so powerful that it may stop your liver from being damaged by toxins. This could be good news for people who take strong drugs for diabetes or other health conditions that might hurt their liver with long-term use.

Turmeric can make it harder for your body to absorb iron. Tell your doctor if you are taking an iron supplement. Avoid using turmeric together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting.

Why can't you take turmeric long term? ›

Consuming turmeric supplements in high amounts may cause symptoms, including upset stomach. It may not be safe to take with certain medications. Turmeric is a yellow-orange spice originating in southern Asia. It's a popular ingredient in many Indian and Middle Eastern dishes as well.

Curcumin, which is the main bioactive component in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. However, while turmeric and curcumin are generally safe to consume, too much of a good thing can be dangerous. One of the risks is that large doses can be bad for your kidneys.

Don't take turmeric supplements if:

You're taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil , Motrin ), or Acetaminophen (Tylenol ). Turmeric may lessen the effects of these medications.

Large amounts of turmeric might interfere with the effects of estrogen. Taking turmeric along with estrogen might decrease the effects of estrogens.

Generally speaking, a dose of 500 mg to 2,000 mg of turmeric is usually recommended. This is based on the dosages used in studies. Look for products that list the actual amount of curcumin in the supplement for best results. Doses of over 8 grams of curcumin per day are not recommended due to the risk of side effects.

Taking turmeric in large doses has potential risks: Mild side effects include upset stomach, acid reflux, diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches. Consuming large doses of turmeric supplements can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.

Most people can add turmeric to their diet safely every day. However, the concentration of curcumin, turmeric's active ingredient, in supplements is much higher than in fresh or dried turmeric, so supplements pose a higher interaction risk.

Using lotions, oils or soaps with turmeric can pack the moisture back into your skin. Make sure to use it on your skin at least once a day to reap the benefits. Studies have shown that turmeric can also be used to help treat the appearance of stretch marks.

Turmeric supplements can be taken at any time of day, but they're best taken at mealtime or with food to aid absorption. Turmeric is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation, but certain populations should exercise caution.