

Rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that send out shoots, as well as roots. Turmeric is a spice derived from the rhizomes of the tropical plant Curcuma longa Linn, which is a member of the ginger family ( Zingiberaceae). However, use of curcumin supplements may affect the efficacy or increase the toxicity of a wide range of drugs when taken concurrently. Oral supplementation with curcumin is generally regarded as safe, especially because of its low bioavailability. Long-term clinical trials are required to confirm whether curcumin could exhibit long-lasting antidepressant effects in patients suffering from major depressive disorder. A number of clinical trials designed to assess whether curcumin might help prevent or treat AD are under way. Yet, some preclinical studies have found curcumin prevented or reversed certain pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). There is currently no substantial evidence showing that curcumin may improve cognitive performance in older adults with or without cognitive impairments. While a few preliminary trials suggested that curcumin may have anti-inflammatory activities in humans, larger randomized controlled trials are still needed to establish the efficacy of curcumin as an anti-inflammatory agent against rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and radiotherapy-induced dermatitis. Yet, several clinical trials designed to assess the safety and efficacy of curcumin alone or with first-line treatment in patients with breast, prostate, pancreatic, lung, or colorectal cancer are under way. (More information)Ĭurrent evidence suggesting that curcumin may help prevent and/or treat colorectal cancer and type 2 diabetes mellitus is very limited.

Therefore, the potential of curcumin as a therapeutic agent is limited by its poor bioavailability. In humans, curcumin taken orally is poorly absorbed and rapidly metabolized and eliminated. Mounting evidence from preclinical studies shows that curcumin modulates numerous molecular targets and exerts antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective activities. Commonly consumed in Asian countries, turmeric has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
#CURCUMIN PILLS SIDE EFFECTS PROFESSIONAL#
Healthcare Professional Continuing EducationĬurcumin is a biologically active polyphenolic compound found in turmeric, a spice derived from the rhizomes of the plant Curcuma longa Linn.Chlorophyll and Metallo-Chlorophyll Derivatives.(adapted from Mayo Clinic Health Letter) - Katherine Zeratsky, R.D.N. You also should talk to your health care provider about turmeric if you take an anti-clotting medication or chemotherapy, as the supplement may interact with your medication. High doses or long-term use may cause gastrointestinal upset for some people.Īsk your health care provider about taking turmeric if you have gallbladder disease, as it may worsen the condition. That said, different amounts often are recommended depending on the health condition being addressed, and higher doses have been used for limited periods of time. When taken by mouth or applied to the skin, turmeric - and the curcumin it contains - appears to be generally safe when limited to less than 8 grams a day. Other areas of investigation include curcumin’s effect on Crohn’s disease, certain cancers, depression, diabetes, joint pain and irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, it may lessen some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling and morning stiffness. Other research suggests that curcumin may reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, more research is necessary to confirm these effects. One study found that taking turmeric extract three times daily was comparable to taking a 1,200-milligram dose of ibuprofen daily. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for a number of health conditions, including reduced pain and increased ease of movement in people with osteoarthritis. Turmeric’s main active component - curcumin - is what gives the spice its yellow color. Or they may be made into a paste to apply to the skin.

The underground portions of the plant can be dried and made into capsules, tablets, extracts, powders or teas. It’s a major ingredient in curry powders - common in many Indian and Asian dishes - and is used as a coloring for foods, fabrics and cosmetics. Turmeric, a plant related to ginger, is grown in many Asian countries, as well as other tropical areas. Relieving arthritis pain is one of many such purported health effects. Can you tell me more about this supplement?ĪNSWER: Although turmeric is a common spice in many home pantries, many people are not familiar with its purported health effects. DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My friend says that her arthritis pain improved after she started taking turmeric.
