What are the possible side effects from turmeric? Most people find curcumin supplements safe and easy to tolerate. Turmeric side effects tend to be rare and are usually mild. There are however some potential side effects to be aware of.
Turmeric, also known as ginger, is a spice that is made from the root curcuma longa (a perennial in the ginger family). Its major active ingredient is curcumin.
Who should avoid turmeric? Pregnant or nursing women should not consume turmeric. Although it's safe to eat in small amounts, it could be harmful if used for medicinal purposes. Turmeric should be avoided if used before or after scheduled surgery. Turmeric could thin the blood, causing blood clot complications.
This spice is great to add to dishes that need a golden hue.
The spice, which is easy to add to smoothies and curries, shows promise when it comes to the following health benefits.
Curcumin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have the greatest potential to treat migraines, headaches, and other conditions. While the exact mechanisms of turmeric's actions are not clear, it is believed that it can reduce inflammation-related pain and indirectly inhibit oxidative damage in the body.
Doctors often recommend 500mg twice daily with food. However, your overall health will determine which dose is right for you. Talk to your doctor.
While the risk of side effects is low and drug interactions are unlikely, stop taking turmeric if you notice ill effects. Turmeric may cause bloating, and there is a theoretical concern that it may interact with blood-clotting medications. Also avoid it if you have gallbladder disease.
Depression causes brain-derived nervetrophic factor (BDNF), a protein, to be reduced. Your hippocampus, which aids in learning and memory, begins to shrink. Studies have shown that curcumin can increase BDNF levels and reverse these changes.
If taken with medication to control cholesterol, turmeric can be beneficial. Curcumin has been shown to be safe and may reduce the risk of developing heart disease. However, further research is needed in order to understand how curcumin works.
Not ready to commit to a supplement? While cooking with turmeric doesn’t give you as big of a health boost, you can still benefit by adding it to your diet.
There is currently no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. However, there are many ways to manage symptoms and flare ups. Research has shown that turmeric supplements may reduce widespread musculoskeletal pain. They inhibit inflammatory pathways and reduce oxidative stress.
One of the most common uses for turmeric extract is combating the discomfort from joint pain and arthritis. Severe arthritic symptoms include limited range of motion, joint stiffness, excessive swelling, and lack of mobility. These symptoms can get worse over time, causing permanent damage if left untreated.