10/16/2025
Great Question Marla! Tumeric is known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Should we be taking tumeric supplements?
Studies have shown turmeric to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, so it’s no wonder the supplement industry has exploded with powders, oils, capsules and extracts.
When turmeric is consumed with black pepper, an active ingredient (curcumin), becomes much better absorbed into the blood.
Without black pepper, the absorption of turmeric is significantly lower (more of it stays in your gut), which may be beneficial if you’re using it to support your gut microbes or for its anti-inflammatory effect on the gut itself.
Taking turmeric or curcumin supplements is not without risk, however, and has been linked to possible liver toxicity, formation of kidney stones and can interfere with some medications.
As is usually the case, using the whole food (turmeric root, in this case) seems to have more potential benefits and fewer risks than using supplements.
So no, I would not recommend Tumeric (or curcumin) supplements, unless directed by your healthcare professional for a specific purpose.
Instead, keep Tumeric root in your freezer and grate some into your smoothie a couple times a week. It’s also wonderful in curries and soups.
