What happens to your body when you start taking turmeric?
Most research shows that taking curcumin, a chemical found in turmeric, by mouth reduces depression symptoms in people already using an antidepressant. High levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood (hyperlipidemia). Taking turmeric by mouth seems to lower levels of blood fats called triglycerides
Turmeric is generally safe in moderate doses, but high intake or long-term use—especially in supplement form—can cause gastrointestinal issues, increase bleeding risk, and interact with medications.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most commonly reported side effects of turmeric and curcumin supplements:
Common Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset: High doses may lead to nausea, diarrhea, bloating, or stomach cramps.
Increased bleeding risk: Turmeric can act as a blood thinner, which may be problematic for people on anticoagulants like warfarin or aspirin.
Liver concerns: Excessive intake has been linked to elevated liver enzymes and potential liver damage in rare cases.
Allergic reactions: Contact with turmeric powder may cause skin rashes or allergic responses, especially in people who handle it frequently.
Gallbladder issues: Turmeric may worsen gallstones or bile duct obstructions due to its effect on bile production.
Iron absorption interference: Turmeric might reduce iron absorption, which could be a concern for people with anemia.
Less Common or Context-Specific Risks
Drug interactions: Turmeric may interfere with medications for diabetes, blood pressure, and chemotherapy. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining turmeric with prescription drugs.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: While turmeric in food is considered safe, high-dose supplements are not recommended due to limited safety data.
Safe Use Tips
Stick to food-level doses unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.
Avoid high-dose supplements if you have bleeding disorders, liver conditions, or are on medication that affects blood clotting.
Monitor for symptoms like stomach discomfort or unusual bruising, especially when starting a new supplement.
Conventionally formulated oral turmeric or curcumin (not modified to enhance bioavailability) is likely safe in the recommended amounts for up to 2 or 3 months. Oral turmeric can cause adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting, acid reflux, stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation
It takes about 4 to 8 weeks of consistent, daily use to start noticing the benefits of turmeric, but this can vary depending on individual factors and the health issue being addressed. Some people may experience subtle improvements sooner, while others may need longer, especially for conditions like joint inflammation or mood regulation. Consistency and a good absorption rate, often achieved by taking it with black pepper, are key to seeing results
Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as skin disorders, respiratory problems, joint pain relief, and digestive disorders. More recently, turmeric has become a popular dietary supplement promoted to benefit a variety of conditions including arthritis, digestive disorders, depression, and allergies, among others
It’s not recommended to take Turmeric supplements if you are on multiple medications, especially blood thinners.
But occasionally using the spice is fine.