What Are the Dangers of Too Much Turmeric?
Several studies have been conducted on the effects of the spice turmeric, which is found in curry powders and is a coloring additive in foods such as prepared mustard and canned chicken broth. The documented health complications on the overuse of the spice are unclear. Side effects of the spice, whether used as a dietary supplement, or used during cooking, have been reported. Although it is believed that turmeric is a safe spice when used in moderation, precautions should be taken if there are current health complications. Turmeric may also interfere with certain medications, rendering them ineffective.
Risk of Bleeding
The compounds in turmeric may cause thinning of the blood. Turmeric should not be taken by a person who has a bleeding disorder. Turmeric should not be taken by a person who is taking a blood-thinning agent to reduce clotting. If turmeric is taken, it may amplify those conditions, which could lead to serious blood loss internally and externally.
Skin Irritations/Allergies
If turmeric comes into direct contact with the skin, it could cause irritation in the form of a rash, swelling, and redness. The degree of seriousness would depend on the sensitivity of the skin and the possible allergic reaction that may incur.
If you are sensitive to turmeric, it is advised you refrain from direct contact with curry powder, of which turmeric is a main ingredient. Other foods that may contain turmeric as a preservative and coloring agent are yellow mustard, pickles, canned chicken broth, and relishes.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Although turmeric has long been used as an herbal remedy for digestive problems, too much turmeric, whether taken as a dietary supplement or when used frequently in cooking, may cause severe gastrointestinal problems in some people. These problems could consist of vomiting and diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration. Turmeric also has the potential to cause ulcers and inflammation of the stomach lining. Signs of possible gastrointestinal problems caused from too much turmeric may also include black tarry stools or bright red blood in the stool. Those symptoms would be signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Pregnancy Problems
During pregnancy, women should not take turmeric. Turmeric may cause complications such as stomach distress and ulcers. Also, if taking turmeric during pregnancy, complications could arise that may lead to excessive bleeding during the birthing process.
Heart Disease
If you are at risk for heart disease, or currently have a heart disease, too much turmeric could be a danger to your health. The curcumin in turmeric activates a gene called p53. That gene has been found to deactivate damaged cells in the heart. When that happens, the cell will stop functioning completely.
Supplements are not Medications
Turmeric is a spice used in cooking, and it is also used as a dietary supplement. Turmeric is not a medication. As a supplement, it can be marketed without proof that it is either safe or beneficial. Due to the lack of studies that have been done on turmeric, it is not known what side effects may be referred to as common, rare, or serious. If you are taking turmeric as a supplement and are experiencing abnormal symptoms, you should consult your physician.
Turmeric Dosage Studies
Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, have reported the dosage used in the studies that have been done on turmeric. This report can be found at, www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-turmeric.html.
Medline Plus also cautions that, "The doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety tested, and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand, The doses may not apply to all products, You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy."
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