Turmeric: Let us ease your mind a bit. As with any dietary supplement, there are right ways to take turmeric root that could best benefit your health. We review things to keep in mind to limit any potential side effects. 

Potential Benefits Of Turmeric Root 

The compound that gives turmeric root its signature bright yellow hue is also the compound that packs the potential health benefits punch: curcumin. Curcumin – and therefore turmeric root – is believed to provide some pretty attractive health benefits, including support of joint and muscle comfort, promotion of healthy aging of the brain, support of a healthy digestive tract, and maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels already in the normal range.

But that doesn’t mean that taking 10 turmeric root supplement capsules at once would give you 10 times the potential benefit. Quite the opposite. There are right – and wrong – ways to consume the supplement in an effort to reduce possible side effects.

Avoiding Turmeric Root Side Effects

According to MentalHealthDaily.com, if you’re supplementing with turmeric root, especially at high doses, it is possible that you may encounter some unwanted side effects at one point or another. The two most common side effects associated are diarrhea and nausea. High on the list of possible side effects are also:

• Thinning of the blood. Some research shows that curcumin may have anticoagulant effects which can slow blood clotting. If you’re already taking a blood thinner, speak to your doctor about your desire to add a turmeric root supplement, and discontinue use at least two weeks before any surgery.
• Some estimates indicate that one in four turmeric root users will notice an increase in bloating and passing gas. To reduce the likelihood of experiencing this particular side effect, consider a dose less than 6 grams per day, and avoid taking your supplement on an empty stomach.
• Low blood sugar. Especially in those with health concerns related to blood glucose, turmeric root supplements may yield this unwanted effect. Some experts believe that the curcumin may even act to amplify pre-existing blood sugar issues.

Less common side effects may also include facial flushing, fever, headaches, skin rash and even low testosterone.

But as with any supplement or medication, remember that the severity and number of side effects you experience is likely subject to a variety of causes and factors. Keep in mind that some individuals may not experience any side effects at all.

Recommendations And Dosages

As with all medications and supplements, we encourage you to consult with your healthcare professional before adding a turmeric root supplement to your regimen. He or she can personalize dosing recommendations for you based on your desired outcomes and other factors – like other medications and supplements you are taking. That said, WebMD.com offers a few general guidelines for using turmeric and avoiding possible side effects:

• This root is likely safe when applied to the skin appropriately for up to eight months.
• It should only be considered as a mouthwash for short-term use.
• For high cholesterol levels: 1.4 grams of turmeric extract in two divided doses each day for three months has been used for those 15 years or older.

Let’s Get Technical

While there are still many studies to be done and results to be reported, BCM-95 – a highly-absorbent form of curcumin, which is the active ingredient in turmeric root – has been clinically proven to help temporarily relieve minor pain. When used at a dosage of 2 grams per day, volunteers participated in the study without any mild adverse reactions. To try BCM-95 out for yourself, we recommend CuraMed and other daily supplements from Terry Naturally. And as always, we’re proud to provide you with free shipping anywhere in the U.S.

by Theresa Groskopp, CN in Health Challenges, Health Tips, Nutrition Supplements