Turmeric has deep roots both in Chinese traditional medicine as well as Ayurveda for arthritis treatment. Researchers have found that turmeric extract could reduce osteoarthritis-related pain. However, further research is required.
The liver is responsible for breaking down some medications. Turmeric could change the rate at which these medications get broken down by your liver. This could lead to side effects and changes in the effects of these medicines.
Large amounts of turmeric might interfere with the effects of estrogen. Taking turmeric along with estrogen might decrease the effects of estrogens.Some estrogen pills include conjugated equine estrogens (Premarin), ethinyl estradiol, estradiol, and others.
The liver can change some medications and break them down. Turmeric could affect how fast these medications are broken down by the liver. This could have side effects or affect the medication's effects.
The benefits of curcumin that have shown the most potential in treating headaches and migraines are its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The exact mechanisms are unknown, but it appears that turmeric can reduce pain linked to inflammation, and directly inhibit oxidative stress in the body.
Turmeric has antioxidant properties. Some worry that antioxidants could reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs used to treat cancer. Talk to your doctor if you are currently taking medication for cancer before taking turmeric.