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Turmeric / Curcumin

Also called: curcumin, haldi

The yellow spice and curcumin, its main active compound. Curcumin is poorly absorbed, so supplements often add black pepper extract (piperine).

Why people take it
Inflammation, joint pain and as an antioxidant.
What the evidence says
There is little reliable evidence that turmeric supplements prevent or treat any disease. Some studies show a small effect on knee arthritis pain.
Be careful
High-dose supplements, especially with piperine, have been linked to liver injury. Avoid with gallstones and talk to your doctor if you take blood thinners. Turmeric in cooking is safe.
In food
Turmeric in food (haldi).

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Common questions

What is Turmeric / Curcumin?

The yellow spice and curcumin, its main active compound. Curcumin is poorly absorbed, so supplements often add black pepper extract (piperine).

Why do people take Turmeric / Curcumin?

Inflammation, joint pain and as an antioxidant.

Does Turmeric / Curcumin work?

There is little reliable evidence that turmeric supplements prevent or treat any disease. Some studies show a small effect on knee arthritis pain.

Is Turmeric / Curcumin safe?

High-dose supplements, especially with piperine, have been linked to liver injury. Avoid with gallstones and talk to your doctor if you take blood thinners. Turmeric in cooking is safe.

Sources and further reading

NCCIH: turmeric

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.