Turmeric

Turmeric, which comes from the Curcuma longa or Curcuma domestica plant, contains compounds called curcuminoids. The most important one is curcumin, which is the major active ingredient. It gives turmeric its bright yellow color. Because of its color, turmeric is also known as “Indian saffron.

The possible health benefits of turmeric come from the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these curcuminoid compounds.

Free radicals can cause many issues, from skin damage to cancer. The best way to fight against free radicals is through antioxidants, which turmeric has plenty of.

It has been used for thousands of years to treat conditions such as skin disorders, respiratory issues, joint pain, digestive problems, and abdominal pain. And a clinical study from 2020 found it to be associated with anticancer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antidiarrheal, and antiviral properties.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using turmeric. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of turmeric:

• There are several different ways to take or use turmeric or curcumin. You can apply it topically to your skin, add it as a spice to food or drink, or take it as an oral curcumin or turmeric supplement.
• When added to foods or drinks, ground turmeric powder or turmeric root does not absorb very well. So this may not be the best way to use it.
• Turmeric or curcumin supplements are available OTC in tablets, capsules, gummies, and topical formulations. Many of these products contain turmeric extract and other ingredients like piperine that improve the bioavailability of its active ingredient. Black pepper is a natural piperine that enhances curcumin absorption.

Some mild or common side effects of turmeric seen in a few clinical trials include:

• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using turmeric, especially when taking high doses. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Increased risk of bleeding
• Liver injury or toxicity in people using turmeric supplements, both at low and high doses
• Serious allergic reaction
• Decreased absorption of iron and iron deficiency
• Increased risk of kidney stones
• Worsening gallbladder issues
• Low blood sugar

These are not all of the possible side effects of curcumin or turmeric. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Turmeric, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you:

• Are taking blood thinners
• Have a surgery scheduled
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have gallbladder disease
• Are undergoing chemotherapy
• Have diabetes
• Have liver, kidney, or heart disease
• Have an iron deficiency
• Have gallbladder issues

Turmeric is generally considered safe to take. If you have any of the conditions mentioned previously, you should check with your healthcare provider to be sure this supplement is safe for you to take.

How long it takes turmeric to work can vary depending on various factors, including the dosage, the dosage form, the condition being treated, and your overall health.

In general, it can take 4 to 8 weeks to notice any significant benefits. Some people may experience improvements sooner, while others may need to take turmeric longer to see the full effects.

When turmeric is taken at high doses with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change the efficacy of turmeric or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions. Curcumin may inhibit the cytochrome 3A4 enzyme, which can alter the metabolism of some prescription drugs.

Turmeric is available in various dosage forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and gummies, as well as topical formulations. At UDS, we offer a 550 mg oral capsule.

Turmeric should be stored at room temperature and out of the reach of children.

There are many pharmaceutical companies that manufacture turmeric products.

Yes, there are various store brands and generic versions of turmeric products available.

Stopping turmeric will not cause any withdrawal symptoms. However, you should talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any supplement they have suggested you use.

Turmeric is generally safe to consume during pregnancy in small amounts. However, researchers have not performed clinical studies on the safety of taking turmeric during pregnancy in humans. Also, taking high doses of curcumin during pregnancy may affect the levels of estrogen in your body, which can cause bleeding or uterine contractions.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. 

No data exists on the excretion of any components of turmeric into breastmilk. A small study found no adverse effects in infants exposed to turmeric in milk. It is generally recognized as safe to use if you are breastfeeding.

However, talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.