Ideal Turmeric Dosage - How Much Turmeric Can You Take in a Day?

Ideal Turmeric Dosage [Updated]- How Much Turmeric Can You Take in a Day

If you are reading this, you already must be knowing about turmeric benefits. If not here is a list of some awesome health benefits of turmeric.

Okay, so lately there has been a lot of confusion on how much turmeric one can take in a day and how many times one should take it.

The primary reason for the confusion on “how much” arises from the fact that one can take turmeric (and thus its active ingredient – curcumin) in so many ways:

  • Fresh turmeric root
  • Turmeric dried root powder
  • Supplement with various % of curcumin present
  • Fluid extract
  • Tincture

Now the key difference in each of them is the quantity of “curcumin“. So how much of this one can take in a day?

If you are confused what curcumin is – curcumin is the “most active” ingredient of turmeric, it is also the most studied (A quick search on Greenmedinfo will throw more than 1,500 results!)

According to numerous studies, curcumin is known to have fantastic anti-inflammatory (1, 2, 3), anti-oxidant (1, 2), anti-microbial (1, 2, 3) and natural painkilling (1, 2) properties, just to name a few.

If you want to read more about Curcumin and its benefits, read our detailed article here>

Recommended Turmeric Dosage Per Day

If you already know about turmeric and looking specifically for turmeric recommended dosages, use the table below. If you want to know more, we encourage you to read the full article first

Turmeric Dosage – Quick Reference

Turmeric Type Dosage Keep in Mind

Raw Turmeric

 3 - 4 gms per day

Can be eaten as it is, already bioavailable

Wash before use

Turmeric Powder

 1 tsp / 2 - 4 gms per day

Start small - 1/4 tsp, then gradually increase

Choose Quality powder

Low absorption, take with black pepper/fats

Turmeric / Curcumin Supplements

 1,000-1,800 mg per day

Go for reputed brands

Look and follow the recommended dosage on the pack

Do not use for a long duration

Before we go and dive deeper into Turmeric dosage, let’s discuss the three most popular ways to take turmeric/curcumin and their pros and cons. Please use the following Table of Contents to jump to sections of interest –

Popular Ways to Take Turmeric

Three ways stand out when it comes to taking turmeric / curcumin –

Raw Turmeric

Raw turmeric is what you get from the turmeric plant directly and it has amazing health benefits.

In fact, as many beneficial ingredients of turmeric (e.g. Turmeric Oil) are lost when it is converted to powder or supplement if you want to get the full spectrum of turmeric benefits, this is the best way to do so.

Another great benefit of raw turmeric is that thanks to turmeric oil, you do not need to worry about its low bioavailability (turmeric is not water soluble, but fat soluble) (1).

(Read: Why Turmeric has Low Bio-availability and Solution).

But, the problem with raw turmeric is not readily available, difficult to use and difficult to store.

Turmeric Powder

Turmeric powder which is made by drying raw turmeric can be stored for a long time and much easier to use at any time of the year.  (Read: How to make powder turmeric from raw turmeric)

Turmeric powder can be used in various ways. It can be added to curries, smoothies, milk and so on. The list is endless.

This is what makes it the most popular choice. In the case of powder, you need to take it with black pepper/fats to increase its bioavailability.

But, many people do not like the taste of turmeric powder, also in case of severe pain, cancer, etc, the quality of powder required is too much and thus almost impossible to take. This is where supplements can help.

Turmeric / Curcumin Supplements

Turmeric supplements are an easy way to get benefits of Turmeric’s key ingredient – curcumin.

There are several types of supplements (Meriva, Theracurmin, Longvida, etc.) on the market and most of them, also address the problem of poor bioavailability by using proprietary methods, etc.

They also have their recommended dosage on the bottles.

If you are interested in knowing more about the supplements types and how they are different, read this –Types of Tumeric / Curcumin Supplements 

The key issue with supplements is that they should not be taken for a long duration. This issue is not when you are taking turmeric powder or raw turmeric.

Thus, supplements are best for a short period of time.

How much turmeric can I take in a Day?

Now, let’s discuss how much turmeric one can actually take in a day. As turmeric is not a drug, the opinion on how much you can safely take vary a lot.

Here is what Research Studies Reliable Sources have to say about it –

According to University of Maryland Medical Center 

The permissible dosages of various forms of turmeric (for adults):

  • Cut root: 1.5 – 3 g per day
  • Dried, powdered root: 1 – 3 g per day
  • Standardized powder (curcumin): 400 – 600 mg, 3 times per day
  • Fluid extract (1:1) 30 – 90 drops a day
  • Tincture (1:2): 15 – 30 drops, 4 times per day

Both fluid extracts and Tinctures are not commonly used.

According to WebMD: 

  • For upset stomach (dyspepsia): 500 mg of turmeric four times daily.
  • For osteoarthritis: 500 mg twice daily of a specific turmeric extract (Meriva, Indena); 500 mg four times daily of a non-commercial product has also been used.
  • For rheumatoid arthritis (RA): 500mg twice daily of a specific formulation of the turmeric constituent, curcumin (BCM-95®, Arjuna Natural Extracts, India), has been used.

The first two are related to normal turmeric powder and the third one – BCM-95®, Arjuna Natural Extracts – with a 95% standardized powder (a supplement).

As you can see the dosage is within 2g range.

Dosage Used in Research Studies

Most of the research conducted on turmeric has been done using turmeric extract or supplements.

Various research studies conducted for joint, cholesterol and skin benefits have used the dosage of curcumin supplements 1,000-1,800 mg per day (1, 2, 3).

But, these dosages are recommended for short periods of time, 2-3 months.

Summary of info

If you are using the powder we would like to mention that you can take 1 tsp of powder on a daily basis without any issues. In terms of gms, the figures are mentioned below:

Recommended turmeric dosages

These are very conservative figures and taking up to 4-5 gms per day is also fine.

In terms of tsp – ideal turmeric dosage is thus around 1 tsp per day.


But then why some Research Study use High Dosages?

While researching over dosages we found a very interesting thing and looking back and thinking about it, we were just wondering why a thing so simple and logical did not strike me!

While we were researching over dosages, we came across studies where researchers were giving dosages as high as 8 g per day to patients.

This we observed in several studies. But then why the University of Maryland Medical Center and others suggest such a small dosage?

The answer may lie in the fact that the dosages are high when we need them i.e. when we are not well.

For example, if you have back pain, you may want to take a high dosage for a day or two and get well. But once you do, you come to the normal “preventive” dosage.

Thus, in our opinion, there are two kinds of turmeric dosages we can take:

  • Preventive – which are low and which we can continue for the lifetime
  • Curative – required when we have some issues. For example, some of the studies mentioned high dosages to cancer patients and it makes all the sense to do so as we need quick action here.

So when you are suffering from say arthritis pain and you take large dosages, it acts as a strong painkiller and helps you.

This can go on for some time and then one should get back to preventive dosage as soon as our body is back in shape.

Turmeric Dosage – what experience tells us

Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years. Millions of people take milk with turmeric on a daily basis and it is included in almost every curry / vegetable we make.

Thus, experience tells that taking even 1 tsp turmeric a day will not have any issues. Of course, if you are new to it, start small – maybe 1/4 tsp and then increase.

So, 1 tsp good quality turmeric powder (check for recommended brands here) should not have any issues at all.

Possible side effects – large dosage for a long time

There are no side effects when you use turmeric as a spice, why? Because the dosage is always limited. But things may be different when you take supplements or large amounts of turmeric powder for a long period of time.

It is important to understand that the side effects occur when you take them for a long period of time and not immediately.

Thus we can always take curative dosages whenever we require and shift to preventive ones when fine. Also when the preventive dosage limit says 3.0 g per day, nothing wrong is going to happen if you take 6-8 g per day.

Most of the times the dosages mentioned are on a much safer side.

Typical side effects are related to the digestive system – stomach upset, diarrhoea, ulcers.

The side effects may also vary from person to person too. I was not able to find any “very” serious side effects though except ulcers.

Again, we would not like to create a panic here and thus would like to highlight that turmeric is very very safe, only it is the very high dosage for a very long period of time is known to cause issues.

How to choose Right Turmeric Powder?

If you are new to turmeric, then use any of these 3 methods to get the right turmeric powder:

  • Ask people you know well who are using turmeric and get their recommendations
  • Go to an online portal and look for organic brands / certified brands (we are saying this because if you do not know what good turmeric is, it will be difficult to figure it out in hundreds of brands, some very cheap and some with a lot of reviews
  • You can check the list of our recommended brands here>

Key Takeaways On Turmeric Dosage

  • It is safe to take up to 1 tsp good quality turmeric powder a day
  • There are indeed some limits of turmeric usage on a daily basis if you are taking a preventive dose. (see details above). Regarding turmeric powder (and not supplements) – you can exceed them to a certain extent with no issues at all.
  • In case of disorder, a curative dosage can be as high as 8-10g per day (note – this is not prescribed dosage, but we found this to be the highest quantity among all the used dosage in research studies we analyzed).
  • Turmeric (powder) is very safe to use and side effects only occur when high dosages are taken for the long duration of time

FAQs

Will my dosage vary based on the type of curcumin supplement I take?
Yes, it may. In the case of supplements, we have found that all leading supplement brands do provide details of the recommended dosage on the pack. That can easily be used as a guideline to take a particular supplement.
Every Turmeric Powder has different curcumin%, so should we change dosage?
On an average powder will have 3% curcumin. Do not get obsessed with a higher percentage. That would be too much work to do! In the long run, if you are taking turmeric powder, 3% or 3.5% is not going to matter much.
Which Supplements do you recommend?
The market is flooded with turmeric supplements and that’s a big problem. You can read our guide on selecting the supplement and also know the best supplements types here>

Can I Overdose Turmeric Powder

It is very very difficult to do so. You will have to take a HUGE quantity to overdose turmeric powder / raw turmeric. But you can overdose supplements.

Is Organic Tumeric Powder Better?

We would not say ” better” but a properly certified turmeric powder will not have issues of contamination which is so common. But make sure you take a proper certified one. Here are some guideines>

How Long can I take Turmeric?

Turmeric can be made part of your life and diet can be taken lifelong! In fact, that is when the best results are likely to come.

Awesome Turmeric Powder Recipes

So, now you know everything about turmeric dosage., but how exactly you can make it part of your diet? The good thing about turmeric is that it can be added to any food / drink.

Som here are some great recipes which include turmeric to get you going.

</p> <h4>Meatballs in Creamy Turmeric Mustard Sauce</h4> <p>

Here is one delicious looking Meatballs in Creamy Turmeric Mustard Sauce from Jill Moore.

What all you need?

  • 500g lean minced beef
  • 2 spring onions, finely sliced
  • 2 dessertspoons spelt flour, or plain flour
  • 1/2 beef stock cube
  • 1/4 cup hot water
  • 1 brown onion, sliced
  • 1 heaped teaspoon seeded mustard
  • 2 dessertspoons spelled flour
  • water
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric paste – refer here to make the golden paste
  • 1/2 beef stock cube
  • cream, kefir or yogurt

How to cook?

Meatballs in Creamy Turmeric Mustard Sauce

Use a knife to mix flour and spring onions thru beef, then add stock cube dissolved in water. Stir well, then break up into small pieces and roll into small balls. Refrigerate for 1/2 hour.

Heat some olive or coconut oil in a large frying pan, and brown meatballs.

Add onion and saute with meatballs until soft and slightly browned.

Add flour, stir through the pan to soak up oil and brown, then add enough water to make the sauce.

Stir in mustard and turmeric paste. Simmer for 10 minutes, adding water as needed and stirring occasionally.

When ready to serve, add a splodge of cream, kefir or yogurt and stir through to make a creamy sauce.

</p> <h4>Lemon Turmeric King Prawn Linguine</h4> <p>

Here is the recipe for awesome Lemon Turmeric King Prawn Linguine:

What you need:

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 250g raw King Prawns shelled
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed or chopped finely
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 2 courgettes (baby zucchini) chunked
  • 6 button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 chicken stock cube
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric

How it looks! Just awesome, right?

1926057_669426916447505_247584704_o

While your linguine is cooking, use a wok to saute the prawns, chili, and garlic until only just cooked (2-3 minutes), turning once.

Set aside in a bowl, add more oil to wok if needed.

Add courgettes and mushrooms, stir fry a few minutes then add juice, butter, and stock cube.

Simmer over low heat with the lid on a few minutes, then add basil, turmeric, and prawns. Cook for one minute, stirring well.

Serve over linguine and liberally sprinkle with fresh ground black pepper, add Parmesan cheese as desired.

</p> <h4>Turmeric Topper</h4> <p>

Who says one can only use turmeric while cooking? Not correct.

Here is a ripper (just look at the awesome looking recipe image) turmeric drink by Zoe Pezzack.

Zoe regularly experiments with food and comes up with awesome turmeric recipes.

Here is her one of the great ones. She named her – Turmeric Topper! :), really a topper I must say!

What all you need?

The list is really long and interesting. She has put lots of healthy stuff into it.

This also means one can experiment with this one a lot!

  • Chia seeds
  • Oats
  • Coconut milk
  • Coconut oil (prefer organic virgin coconut oil)
  • Black pepper (increases turmeric absorption in the body)
  • Turmeric (prefer organic turmeric from a reputed brand)
  • Peanut butter (avoid if you are allergic)
  • Spinach (yum! )
  • Rosemary & mint
  • Strawberries (awesome!!)
  • Blueberries (of course if they are available in your area)
  • Physalis
  • Apple juice (an apple a day keeps the doctor away!)
  • Pineapple, passion fruit & kiwi.

Here is how the final product looks like! Superb

Turmeric Topper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

</p> <h4>Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry</h4> <p>

Serve with Basmati rice and natural yogurt.

What all you need?

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil – please use virgin coconut oil of the reputed quality
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tsp ginger (or 2 tsp chopped fresh ginger)
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric – please use organic turmeric
  • 1 tsp yellow mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • ½ cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 3 button squash, chopped
  • 1 cup orange sweet potato, peeled & cut into chunks
  • 1 chicken stock cube
  • 1 400g can chopped tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 400g can chickpeas
  • 1 400g can lentils
  • 1/2 green capsicum

Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry

How to cook?

Heat oil in a large wok or soup pot, and saute onion for a minute or two until softened. Add garlic and spices and stir fry with onion over a medium/gentle heat until fragrant.

Add cauliflower, sw. potato and squash, stir well to coat with spice, then add tomatoes, stock cube, and water.

Simmer over a gentle heat for 10 minutes, then add chickpeas, lentils, and capsicum.

Simmer a further 5 minutes.

</p> <h4>How to Make Apple Dip with Turmeric</h4> <p>

Here is another delicious dip which also includes turmeric. I strongly believe that it is better to take turmeric in our food rather as supplements.

Fortunately, there are so many ways to include turmeric in your diet. I will not be discussing how to include turmeric as a spice as that most of us can do but talk about some interesting recipes which have turmeric.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away goes an old saying. Apples are great for health; they are rich in fiber and antioxidants.

The best thing about this recipe is it also has other great health-promoting foods – honey, cinnamon, and lemon.

What all is required?

  • 2 apples, grate them properly
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juiceApple dip with turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon honey (any flavor should do, just make sure that it is pure and not adulterated)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon stevia
  • 1 cup applesauce (this can be bought from the market or made at home)

How to prepare Apple dip with turmeric

Apple dip preparation is even simpler than yogurt dip. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and serve it with other fresh fruits and vegetables. That’s it!

You can serve this to 5-6 people easily.

Nutrition facts

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 108
  • Fat: 0
  • Cholesterol : 0
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 2 mg
</p> <h4>Yellow Yellowfin Tuna with Coconut Rice</h4> <p>

This recipe is by Dennis Richardson. I requested Dennis if I could share some of his awesome recipes involving turmeric and coconut oil on my portal and he gladly agreed.

So here is one of his mouth watering ones – Yellow Yellowfin Tuna with Coconut Rice

What all you need?

The usual suspects:

  • Turmeric powder
  • Flour
  • Coconut oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fish (of course!)
  • Tomatoes
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Onion
  • Lemon
  • White wine
  • Cooking cream
  • Basmati rice

Yellow Yellowfin Tuna with Coconut Rice

How to cook?

Here are the steps –

  • In a plastic bag, put 1 Tblspn plain flour and 1 Tblspn turmeric powder, a tspn seasalt and a tspn cracked black pepper, add fish steaks.
  • Coat them fully and let rest in the powder till room temp.
  • Fry till done to your liking in a non-stick frypan and ample coconut oil.
  • When done, lift steaks out and let rest on a plate.
  • Leave oil and dregs in the pan, then you do the sauce in the same pan. 6 cherry tomatoes, quartered, tspn minced garlic, tspn minced ginger, 1 stalk spring onion, 1/2 brown onion finely sliced, big sprinkle of smoked or sweet paprika, big dash of turmeric, big sprinkle of cracked pepper and big pinch of sea salt, juice of 1/4 lemon, and when just about all hot, a (big) splash of white wine and 150ml cooking cream.
  • Let it bubble then remove from heat and serve.

Rice is well-rinsed basmati, soaked then quickly fried in coconut oil, then add water and cook as normal.

</p> <h4>Make Delicious Lemon Rice!</h4> <p>

Lemon rice is a very popular variant of rice recipe in India. This tasty and healthy dish comes from southern parts of India.

Lemon rice is called lemon rice because they are sour in taste because lemon juice is used to prepare them. Apart from that, another distinct feature is its very beautiful looking yellow color which it gets from the use of turmeric in it.

Read- Awesome Health Benefits of Turmeric>

I had lemon rice first time just a few years ago and since then I have become a huge fan. It appeals to all senses – has great taste, awesome color, and amazing aroma.

What is needed to make lemon rice?

Here is the list of key ingredients for lemon rice:

  • 4 cups cooked white basmati rice / brown basmati rice (basmati rice is the best rice for lemon rice)turmeric recipe lemon rice
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil (any oil of your preference would do)
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 6 green cardamom pods, split
  • 1⁄2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 2 dried hot red chills, cut lengthwise
  • Finely chopped pieces of ginger (based on your taste)
  • Garlic and clove – choose quantity based on your taste
  • 10 fresh or dried curry leaves (we use curry leaves a lot for taste and garnishing, use them if you find them good)
  • Garnishing of choice – Coriander, dry fruits, etc.

How to cook lemon rice

Cooking of lemon rice is not time-consuming. It just takes 15-20 min.

Step one is to heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and put all spices. Cook till you can very well smell the aroma of the spices. Typically it will take 3-4 minutes.

Then put lemon juice and cook for 1 minute and then add rice. The important part is to keep stirring the mixture so that spices blend well with rice. Cook for 3-4 minutes.

Your lemon rice is ready! Add garnishing of choice. We typically add cashews, roasted peanuts, coriander, etc.

The quantity is sufficient to serve 4 people.

Image Source: nandyala.org

</p> <h4>Delicious Lemon Rasam with Turmeric</h4> <p>

I had rasam around 10-12 years ago when I went on a trip to South India. Since then I am a big fan. There are so many ways to cook it and everyone has a unique style.

Here I am putting together one which is very commonly followed.

What all is needed?

  • 2/3 cups of split pigeon peas (also known as toor dal)
  • ¼ tsp. of ground turmeric
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tbps grated ginger
  • 2 serrano chilies
  • 15 oz can of plum tomatoeslemon rasam with turmeric
  • 2 tsp clarified butter (popularly known as ghee in India)
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 dried red chili (dried red chilies are extensively used in Indian cuisines for taste)
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ black pepper
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • Garnishing – based on your own choice

How to prepare it

Split pigeon peas are brought to boil over medium heat in a pan along with 4 cups of water and turmeric. Partially cover the pan and lower the heat.

Allow simmering for 40-45 minutes.

This will make toor dal soft. Then bend using a blender to make it smooth. Put in the pan again and add water to make 5 cups of rasam.

Add ginger, chilies, salt, and tomatoes and again bring to boil over medium heat. Reduce heat again and allow to simmer for some time. Keep stirring occasionally.

After this heat, the ghee in a skillet over medium heat, add mustard seeds, red chili, cumin, pepper and heat for a few minutes. Put this into the soup when it is still over gas.

Remove pan from the gas and stir in lemon juice. Add further salt and pepper for taste (if needed). Add garnishing of choice. Your tasty rasam is ready!

Making good rasam is an art and it is best to experiment to discover how you like it. It is a great appetizer and goes very well as a starter.

</p> <h4>Yummy Yogurt Dip!</h4> <p>

Dips are loved by kids and thus can be a great way to make them eat nutritious foods for example fruits etc. Yogurt dip is very easy to prepare and very healthy too because of the presence of probiotics.

The only key thing which is required in the preparation is to strain the yogurt overnight. This makes it thick. One can also use Greek yogurt instead, and in that case, no straining will be required.

What all is required?

  • 2 cups plain yogurt / or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmericTurmeric Yogurt Dip
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon stevia
  • Fresh fruits (based on choice):
    • Pineapple / apple slices
    • Sliced, peeled kiwi fruit
    • Fresh pear slices

How to prepare

Just place the strained or Greek yogurt in a bowl and add all other ingredients except fresh fruits. Mix well, cover it and then refrigerate for 2-3 hours. The dip is ready to be used. You can put it alongside fresh seasonal fruits; it will for sure make them more delicious to eat!

This dip can serve 6.

Key Nutrition values:

  • Total fat – 3 gms out of which 2 gms is saturated
  • Cholesterol – 11 gms
  • Sodium – 38 mg
  • Carbohydrate – 5 gms
</p> <h4>Delicious Lentil Turmeric Soup</h4> <p>

There only a few dishes where turmeric is the main ingredient as it is mostly used as a spice. Thus, most of the recipes I will be discussing will have turmeric but not in a key role.

Lentil is a member of the legume family. It has very high fiber content and provides lots of energy. Another health benefit of lentil is that it is great for heart health and stabilizes blood sugar. As with all legumes, it is an excellent source of protein.

Lentil is very popular in India, not as a soup but we make ‘dal’ (sort of a curry) from it. Lentil can also be taken in soup form and in that turmeric plays an essential part. Lentil soup is also used in detox diets.

Here is the recipe for lentil soup with turmeric

What all is required?

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (if you can get organic olive oil, it is better)
  • 2 onions, peel them and then chop them
  • 5 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated ginger root
  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and choppedTurmeric Recipes: Delicious Lentil Turmeric Soup
  • 1 parsnip, peeled and chopped
  • 4 carrots, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 5 cups of water
  • 1 1/2 cups apple juice (you may take any other juice you like too)
  • 1 cup lentils
  • 2 tablespoons squeezed lemon juice (seasoning based on choice)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper (seasoning based on choice)
  • 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley (seasoning based on choice)
  • 1 cup plain yogurt, drained in cheesecloth
  • 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (seasoning based on choice)

One can always experiment with the ingredients based on taste.

Cooking Steps

The method is very straightforward and the soup takes around 20 min to prepare and around an hour to cook. Here are the steps:

Cook onion, garlic and ginger in olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 min. Add other ingredients – sweet potato, parsnip. You need to cook until all these vegetable starts turning soft.

The second step is to add carrots, turmeric, rosemary, water, apple juice, and lentils. Bring all these to a simmer. Turn down the gas knob to low, cover the utensil and allow to simmer for 35-45 min. This makes vegetables tender.

Lastly, add seasonings based on your choice. We had taken parsley, lemon juice, and pepper. It can be served dolloped with yogurt. If you like add pumpkin seeds at the top.

The soup can serve 6 people.

</p> <h4>Fast and Easy Potato Soup with Turmeric and Brewers Yeast</h4> <p>

Here is the recipe of Potato soup with twist and taste of turmeric!

Initial preparations:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 brown onion, peeled and sliced
  • 2 spring onions, finely sliced

Method:

Bring to boil in a large saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain water into a small pan and mash cooked veg still in the saucepan. Add the drained cooking water. Then add:Potato Soup

  • Add sea salt to taste
  • Add fresh ground black pepper, to improve turmeric’s bioavailability
  • 1 dessert spoon Brewer’s Yeast
  • Turmeric paste to taste (start with 1 teaspoon if new to the flavor)
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • 1/2 cup grated tasty cheese (or parmesan)

Stir well, and adjust flavours to suit. Your Potato soup is ready!

Recipe and Image Courtesy: TUG

</p> <h4>Rocket Fuel - Turmeric, Coconut Oil and Dry Fruits Tango</h4> <p>

If you think a turmeric recipe cannot be rich with dry fruits, think again. If you were looking for a recipe where you could get benefits of coconut oil, turmeric and dry fruits in one go, you have come to the right place!

Here is one awesome turmeric, coconut oil and dry fruit rich recipe by Dough English and yes it has an awesome name too – ROCKET FUEL! And I must say given the ingredients it fits perfectly. 

What all you need?

  • 300 ml coconut oil (virgin organic coconut oil)
  • 3 large heaped tablespoons turmeric (organic)
  • Dry fruits – almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, etc.
  • Others – pomegranate seeds, cranberries, etc.
  • Salt and pepper

Rocket fuel

How to cook?

The process of cooking is extremely simple.

  • Heat coconut oil in a pan
  • Add turmeric
  • Add dry fruits and others and stir for sometime
  • In the end, add salt and pepper based on taste

Your Rocket fuel is ready. Let it cool and then store it in the fridge and use when you feel like.

</p> <h4>Lemon Turmeric Cleanse</h4> <p>

We take toxins in our body through the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat.

Thus it is best to regularly cleanse the system so that it can keep working properly.

There are many ways to do this; people follow regular detox diets which include fruits, lots of liquids, etc.

If you cannot follow an elaborate cleanse it is best to keep trying with small things such as pre-breakfast lemon cleanse with turmeric.

This is an extremely simple but highly effective cleansing recipe.

Here is what you need:

  • Juice a decent size fresh lemon
  • 1tbps of raw (organic if possible) honey. You may choose any particular flavor if you like
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric (if you are not used to taking turmeric start with lower amounts such as 1/8 tsp)
  • 1 glass or 2 cups of warm water (500 ml)

The preparation is very simple, just combine all the ingredients in warm water and stir well. This has to be taken before breakfast.

The cleanse is very healthy.

It has some of the most healthy foods available to us – lemon (rich in vitamin C and great for health), raw honey (considered to be a superfood as it has numerous health benefits) and turmeric.

Hope you will try some of these. Do send your feedback and also send across your own recipes! We would love to have them!

781 thoughts on “Ideal Turmeric Dosage [Updated]- How Much Turmeric Can You Take in a Day”

  1. Confused on dosing…
    I have been taking a form of liquid turmeric, purchased from a local warehouse, and following the dosing recommendations on the label. They are as follows:

    “Take one (15ml) dose per day – mixed with juice, cold water, or undiluted.”

    the supplement facts are:
    * Curcumin extract (curcuma longa)(rhizome)(95% curcuminoids) — 1000 mg per serving
    * Proprietary Turmeric Support Comples Glycerine, acacia gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, ascorbic acid, black pepper extract (piper nigrum)(fruit) — 1209 mg per serving

    is this considered an acceptable daily dose or is this a high dose? If this is a high dose, what do you recommend as a good daily dose?

    have also been taking it pretty much daily for about a year and can say that I don’t really feel any different from when i didn’t take it.

    any direction or recommendation you can provide would be appreciated.
    thank you so much!

    Reply

  2. How much pharma quality turmeric essential is equivalent to about 500 mg of turmeric powder or supplement? Right now I am taking about 3 drops + 2 drops of black pepper and a drop or 2 of black cumin per day in my tea.

    Reply

  3. Hello,
    Any concerns with taking Turmeric in the form of juice (Jamu Juice) if you have suffered a stroke? I am asking due to its anti-inflammatory properties. I was thinking of starting with 1-1.5 oz per day.
    Thank you,
    C

    Reply

    • Hi. Taking turmeric in your diet should not be a problem. Jamu juice, as you mentioned, is an anti-inflammatory drink and contains other ingredients such as ginger, honey, lemon. 1-1.5oz a day doesn’t seem to be problematic. But if you are on blood thinning medications, it would be best to consult your doctor about this.

      Reply

  4. Good day to you and thank you for such great information. I keep reading that ‘high dosages for long periods of time’ should not be taken regarding Tumeric.
    I am taking 475mg of Curcuma Extract which relates to 450mg Curcuminoides with 20mg black pepper for absorption. I take one capsule per day. Is this going to be bad to keep taking long term or can I continue with it as I read the studies are using well over 1000 mg for some months at a time.

    Thank you for your time.

    Reply

    • Hi. 475mg curcuminoids daily is safe for general health and well-being. However we would advise taking a break for a few months in between. You can consider including turmeric paste or root in your diet. Please confirm with your doctor as well.

      Reply

  5. I have a question about using freshly grated turmeric for tea. Some recipes I’ve seen recommend straining the tea ingredients before drinking But my question is: would it be better to not strain and rather just eat the turmeric that’s at the bottom of the cup? Just wondering. I used 1.5 tsp fresh turmeric, black pepper, stevia, fresh lemon juice. Steeped for 5 min. And strained. The grated turmeric was floating through the tea, not really sunk to the bottom.

    Reply

    • Hi. Since its a tea, most recipes suggest straining the ingredients, but if you are comfortable you can consume the grated turmeric.

      Reply

  6. I’m impressed, I must say. Rarely do I come across a blog that’s both educative and amusing,
    and without a doubt, you’ve hit the nail on the head. The issue is
    something that not enough men and women are speaking intelligently about.

    I’m very happy I came across this in my search for
    something concerning this.

    Reply

  8. Thank you for such an in-depth article on how much tumerec dosage. Previously I only knew about the health benefits of tumerec powder and have been using it for over 3years. Recently my testis developed infections with high fluid built-up with severe pain. So I decided to take higher dose (1/2 table spoon 3 times per day.
    So I became worried about side effects over higher dosage.
    But your article has dispelled my concern.

    Reply

  9. I am trying to figure out how much of curcumin root to take daily for pain but I can’t know in mg since I have the root so do I take half a root or a full root ? What is one full root mean in terms of mg conversion ?

    Reply

  10. I am using a mixture of turmeric powder, olive oil and black pepper. I’m a little bit worried because after reading your article I suppose my turmeric dosage is too high – 12 g. I do this for years now and I feel fine. No bad side effects. No health concerns. Would you recommend to lower the dose to 3 g?

    Reply

    • Hi. Glad to hear that you are not facing any side effects but yes the dosage is indeed very high. Please cut down the dosage to half or stick to 1 tsp 2-3 times a day. This should suffice for maintaining general health.

      Reply

  11. I have until very recently been making the golden paste and having one dose a day of approximately a heaped teaspoon , either with my cereal in warm milk or just as a hot drink. I have been told that it would be best to take several small doses at intervals during the day and I understand this would be better. Now I have decided that perhaps having the fresh turmeric would be best and my question is, do I get the best benefit if the turmeric is taken warm/hot ? I have a fruit smoothie every morning & this is what I mix the turmeric with, I am then able to take that drink with me, on ice, & drink it at intervals during the day.

    Reply

    • Hi Lidwina. Including Golden Paste in your smoothies is absolutely fine. Since the turmeric is already cooked with fats and black pepper, you don’t need to worry about the benefits and absorption.

      Reply

  12. I am using a mixture of turmeric powder and cayenne pepper. Can I add the black pepper too? I do take a teaspoon each in hot water morning and evening, is it good? Thank you.

    Reply

  13. I’ve just started using golden paste daily (1/4 tsp for now). What is the best way to take it? I take it with a meal but don’t like the taste and have been swallowing it all in one bite, then drinking some water immediately afterwards. I also try to be careful and not stain my teeth by leaving it in my mouth too long. I don’t drink milk, so it there any other liquid I can mix with it to make it more palatable?

    Reply

  14. Hi,

    It was mentioned that the turmeric supplements should not be taken for a long period of time. How would you define this?

    And after this has been reached, how long would you recommend waiting before resuming consumption?

    Ross

    Reply

  18. They extract curcumin from the powder and add that to capsules. How much curcumin extract is in your pill will determine how much your getting. Some companies add alot some have very little.

    Reply

    • By using Turmeric Powder, combined with Black Pepper it’s the Pepper that increases the Bio availability by over 1000%. No added supplements you get the main ingredient. Taken with meals you get the added ingredient of fats. which is very important. The other point is the cost, by buying 500grm Turmeric and 100grm B/Pepper will last you 18 months for the same cost of ONE MONTHS supply of curcumin supplements.
      It’s a no brainer and it works.

      Reply

  19. I make my own Capsules. Make a batch at a time by mixing 5Table spoons of Turmeric with 1 Table spoon of Black Pepper, this makes up approx 140 “OO” Capsules. I get my Turmeric etc from “Just Ingredients”. they are a company Turmeric for Health accept.
    I have been doing this for some 2 years and it has relieved me of my spinal Arthritis, Migraines and Acid Reflux which had been with me for some 20 years.. I am now medication free, for a 78 year old think that is pretty good.

    Reply

  21. Hello,
    Am a bit lost on dosage:
    The suggested dosage in powder form of tumeric is 1.5 to 3g per day. And it has around 3 to 9% of curxumin in it.
    The suppement does is 400 to 600mg, 3x a day, and it has 95% curcumin? Doesnt seem like the suplement is wayyyy higher in dosage of curcumin than the powder tumeric dose?
    Can u pls explain?

    Thank you

    Reply

  22. I used 1 tea spoon turmeric daily for 45 days, after that my saliva became bitter because it increases secretion of bile, I stopped using it for 10 days and started using turmeric again, and so on.

    Reply

  23. I was diagnosed with lichen planopilaris which is inflammation of hair follicles I’m currently on topical steroids been taking turmeric extract powder with 95% curcuminoids would really like to know how much of a dosage to take daily my goal is to get off topical steroids.

    Reply

    • Hi Michelle. A dose of 1500-2000mg of standardized 95% curcumin per day is found to be safe and effective. Start with a dose of 500mg per day for a week and gradually scale up over the weeks to identify a dose that helps you. Opt for standardized 95% curcumin with Bioperine supplements.
      Take the supplements after a meal and avoid taking them close to the time of taking any medicine. Maintain a 3-4 hour gap.

      Reply

  24. I keep reading that our bodies need to be able to have an “inflammation response” for the body to fight disease, or injury. I also read that many of our health issue are because our bodies are always inflamed. If turmeric/curcumin keeps your body in a constant state of fighting inflammation is this a problem? For disease or injury?
    Thank you for your time.

    Reply

    • Hi Linda. Yes, inflammation response is necessary to fight infections and to heal injuries. Also, uncontrolled inflammatory response fuels disease progression. Apart from being a natural anti-inflammatory agent, curcumin is also an immunomodulatory agent- it stimulates immune defences to fight infections and can also relieve inflammation in diseased states.
      Hope this helps.

      Reply

  25. Could you please indicate the ratio required between fresh turmeric and or powder, black pepper and coconut oil to make an effective paste. Many thanks

    Reply

  27. Hi,
    I have osteoarthritis in one of my knees as well as teach Zumba Fitness twice a week. I just started taking a tumeric tea mixture which consists of 1 cup of warm almond milk, 1 tsp of tumeric, 1tsp of cinnamon, 1/4 tsp of ginger and 1 tbs of honey in the morning everyday. I take an additional cup after my class on my workout classes. After reading what you wrote, I feel that I am OK, however can you tell me if the addition of ginger and cinnamon is a benefit or not to my tumeric tea regimen.

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi. Yes, the addition of ginger and cinnamon to turmeric tea can benefit your health as these spices have natural anti-inflammatory property.

      Reply

  29. I take turmeric in my coffee every morning. Sometimes, I have two mugs, but usually I have one mug. I have noticed a lot of benefits. I have more energy and I recover quickly after gym. I think it’s also helping with inflammation.

    Reply

    • Hi Kwame. Yes, turmeric’s anti-inflammatory property helps resolve Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness. Glad to hear that turmeric benefits you!

      Reply

  32. I have benign phyllodes tumor in my left breast… im taking turmeric root everynight before bed time and im not using any measures i just boiled it put water and thats it… i dont know if it safe or am i overdosing?.. can u help me?… thanks

    Reply

  33. The percentage of curcumin in any measure of turmeric is approx. 2-3% Therefore you would need to take a tablespoon or three teaspoons (6.800mg) of ground tumeric to get 200 milligrams of curcumin.

    Reply

    • No. Because a supplement is not absorbed as the real thing. Example: I eat 2 kiwies every morning (160-260mg of vitamin C) for constipation. It works in half hour. For some reason I had to cut fruits out of my diet. I used tablets of 3.000 mg vit C. And didn’t work. I am sure I have tried it several times. So, from supplements, we absorb less than 5% of the substance. Prefer (always) the real thing. If you need 600 mg curcumin from supplement, 30 mg curcumin of the real thing (turmeric) will be more than enough!

      Reply

  34. When using the spice on its own, the common rule of thumb is that there are 200 milligrams of curcumin in one teaspoon of fresh or ground turmeric.

    Reply

  35. Very helpful and informative thank you. I have suffered for many years from very inflamed shoulder muscles, caused by stress and tension. anti inflammatory medication does not help anymore! As I get older, it has been getting worse, and now I am in constant pain and can’t sleep because of it.
    I am going to try this and hope it works!

    Reply

  37. My mother is diagnosis multiple myeloma stage 3rd and on weakely chemotherapy how I shall give her tumeric daily .

    Reply

  38. very informative. I need to stop a tendonits and a bursits (from wrong fitness exercises), but how much of a tsp are 3 gr?

    Reply

  39. From a turmeric grower who supplies both fresh & powder turmeric, I learned it would take 15 grams of fresh turmeric root to make 3 grams of turmeric powder (5 to 1 ratio).

    Reply

    • Hey Greg. Thank you for us updating us on that. This information on how much turmeric root is required to make turmeric powder can help many readers who prefer making turmeric powder at home.

      Reply

  40. How many grams or mgs of tumeric is in a teaspoon and approx how much curcumin would be in a tsp of tumeric ? Thanks for your time.

    Reply

    • 1 tsp of turmeric corresponds to 2-3 g of the powder. The curcumin content of 1 tsp turmeric powder depends on the species of the plant but should range somewhere within 4 to 8% of dry weight.

      Reply

  41. I’m interested in the turmeric root. I have a small cancer of the breast and want to know how much should I take. Then after surgery, how much should I take to prevent reoccurrence ?

    Reply

  42. I’ve had RA for 3-4 years now, and have been taking methotrexate, sulfasalazine and golimumab injections. My condition is now stable but I wanted to take tumeric to relieve pain in my ankles. I’ve started taking tumeric for a week now 800mg per day but today my nose started bleeding. I do suffer with bad nose bleeds occasionally, so I am now worried about whether I should carry on taking tumeric. I’ve read online that taking tumeric can thin the blood or cause bleeding.

    Reply

    • Hi Lisa. Sorry to hear this. Yes turmeric does act as a blood thinner in some cases and it could possibly be a result of drug interaction. Please stop taking turmeric as it may increase the risk of bleeding in your case. Please consult your doctor about the bleeding.

      Reply

  43. You mention nothing of the black pepper that is “suggested” because it multiplies the effects of the tumeric…or did you mention this?

    Reply

    • Hi. Black pepper improves the absorption of turmeric/curcumin. It multiplies the absorption rate and not its effect actually. But yes the increase in absorption results in a better therapeutic effect than turmeric taken alone. For daily intake of turmeric as a spice there is no need to calibrate the ratio of black pepper and turmeric powder.
      1 tsp turmeric powder with 1/4 tsp black pepper powder is sufficient.
      In case of supplements the ratio is curcumin to piperine is 100:1. Hope this helps.

      Reply

  44. I deal with chronic pain & inflammation throughout my body from fibromyalgia & osteoarthritis. What would be a good dosage of Termeric to help with these issues – especially for inflammation?

    Reply

  46. I have heard two sides….one says tumeric is hard to get into your system and should be boiled for 10 minutes for best absorbtion…Dr. Mercola´s web page, (normaly good source ) says heating kills the benifits….and recommends his supliments ..Ihave read that 98 % of them pass through in your urine…so what is the truth

    Reply

  47. Hi,
    I am taking curcumin powder 95%. I had cancer, in remission now. It is confusing to me how much to take, as I understand this is much more powerful than turmeric powder. And all articles I find talk about turmeric dosages, but not curcumin.
    Would appreciate some advice. Thanks

    Reply

  48. I am recovering from shoulder replacement surgery and ordered raw turmeric root. How much should i eat a day, in teaspoons, please.

    Reply

  51. Please tell us the best way to deliver Tumeric as a preventive dosage to the digestive tract. As a dried powdered root.

    Reply

  52. I also find this to be a bit confusing. I tsp a day…you do not address how this translates if you are using golden paste. 1 tsp a day means 1 tsp golden paste a day? Or less because there are other things added in? Bottom line, how much golden paste should I use in a day?

    Reply

  53. Well this can be confusing, I used turmeric, 4 cups of water, 1 tsp, turmeric (kitchen spice) 1 tsp., ginger (from a jar of minced) pinch of black pepper, boiled and simmered for 10 minutes., Drank one cup, maybe 10 oz, then refrigereated the rest for the next morning. Since I can’t do grams etc. I go by tsp. tablespoons etc. So are you saying the “kitchen spice” was a waste of my time?

    Reply

  54. I’ve been eating about 20 – 25g powder(5% circumin) daily for several years, approx 1lb powder every 22 days or so, mixed with enough coconut oil to bind it and plenty of ground black pepper, and have experienced no stomach issues, no diarrhea, no bad side effects. I started it on the advice of a nutritionist as a remedy for inflammation and not only has that problem abated, my overall health has been superb!

    Reply

  55. I’ve been told that Turmeric is a blood thinner so care must be taken for folks concerned about such. I don’t see that mentioned in your write-up (side effects?)

    Reply

  56. I predict that any dose of turmeric would be greatly enhanced and made more effective, if it was mechanically blended (by fork or motorized blender) with coconut oil/egg yolk, 1 tsp of the oil plus one egg yolk per tsp of powdered turmeric. The oil would increase the herb’s solubility and absorbability, allowing smaller doses for the same effects as larger doses of the herb. Alternatively, I predict, that supplement-grade lecithin (approx. half a teaspoon of the granular product) could substitute for the egg yolk. The lecithin, or the egg yolk (a natural rich source of lecithin), would create an emulsion with the turmeric increasing its availability to its target tissues of the digestive system.

    Reply

  57. Can I take 1 tsp of Golden Paste (home-made) every day as my daily recommended dose of turmeric? Or does it have to be powder? Does a daily teaspoon of Golden Paste help reducing arthritic pain?

    Reply

  58. Hello, my dad is battling cancer of the larynx at the moment and had undergone laryngectomy. He is currently undergoing third round of chemo therapy but without any success. Can he start taking turmeric tablets? If yes, please advise on dosage which make to use? Thank you

    Reply

  59. How important is the addition of ground black pepper to the daily dose taken for preventative purposes and how much should be added?

    Reply

  60. “In case of disorder, a curative dosage can be as high as 8-10g per day”, do you say this about the supplement as well or this is just about the powder and what about the supplement, what is the maximum curative dosage?

    Reply

  62. I have fibroids, prolapse uterus, endometriosis and ovarian cyst. I was in the ER 2 might ago due to hemorrhaging vaginaly because I could not have my hysterectomy the same week due to insurance BS. I HAD TO BEG for progesterone tablets to slow and hopefully stop the hemorrhaging, which it has not as if day 3. ( I also have hx if arthritis at 47 years old) from the reading on the site as well as others I’m thinking of trying tumeric. Has anyone had any positive results with the fibroid pain and hemorrhaging with large clots with it’s use? I’m still waiting on insurance to approve my hysterectomy. But I can not go through another episode like this nor can my husband. The pain is too much to bear along with the fact I’m hemorrhaging so bad I’m on bed rest. ( My husband is a former combat medic and I am a nurse but modern medicine is not accomplishing anything at this point and I’m researching alternatives)

    Reply

  63. I am thinking of taking Curcumin as I have a lot of joint pain but am undecided as I am taking Warfain for A fib.
    Do you have any advice,please?
    Thanks.

    Reply

  64. One thing in the article I have trouble with is that the max daily dose of fresh turmeric and dried and powdered are given as the same: 3 grams. This doesn’t make sense. Fresh turmeric has more mass in the form of water, which is absent in the dried root, and so, by weight, the fresh root should have a lower concentration of everything except water. Or is it that dried turmeric loses potency at just the right rate to make fresh and dried equal in potency per gram?

    Reply

  65. “Turmeric (powder) is very safe to use and side effects only occur when high dosages are taken for long duration of time.”
    Please define “long duration of time”.

    Reply

    • Long duration of time would be more than 3-4 months; but this is not applicable to serious health conditions like cancer which requires prolonged treatment.

      Reply

  67. Hello there, can i add chia seeds to golden milk or add moringga powder to golden milk. Will it become more healthy or too many cooks spoil the soup?

    Reply

  69. I have a need to try to prevent dementia from developing. I read an article by a psychiatrist who recommends curcumin – take 500mg 2’xs/ day with meals. Do you have info. on preventing dementia? He says it’s the principle component of turmeric.

    Reply

  70. Can the Tumeric be non-organic. Will you get the same benefits by taking store bought Tumeric than buying certified organic Tumeric? (due to the cost of organic Tumeric).

    Reply

  71. 1 tsp is 5 grams. So 1 tsp per day, particularly if used with black pepper, exceeds the 1-3 gram daily consumption recommendation. A better dosage for long-term daily consumption is 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) combined with 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.

    Reply

  72. I am starting to take a 400mg supplement of turmeric. How much black pepper is recommended to help with the absorption. Thank you in advance

    Reply

    • Hi. If your supplement does not contain black pepper already, please take the supplement after meals for better absorption. You can add 1/4-1/2 tsp black pepper to your meal. Plus dietary fat in the meal should aid in absorption.

      Reply

  73. Hi
    I take a supplement which is a combination of 100% curcumin extract, 100% piperine extract and virgin coconut oil. the dosage recommended is 10ml per day which they say equates to 200mg cur cumin, is that too much – just wondering based on your tincture dosage above.
    Thanks

    Reply

  74. I have a lot of inflammation in my body, also have a hernia in my stomach and a bad knee from osteoarthritis, hope turmeric powder will help me.
    I take baby aspirin 81mg, do I stop taking it or do I space this out.

    Reply

  75. I love your article! It’s the most informative I’ve found! Do you know if I can take Tumeric at the same time I take my multi-vitamin?

    Reply

    • Hi. There are no known interactions of turmeric with multi vitamin tablets, but it is best to keep a 2 hour gap at the most between taking the two.

      Reply

  77. My spouse has thyroid nodules and they are benign. She hasn’t been consuming nearly as much iodine rich foods or eating much fish since we moved these past few years. Has anyone ever consumed turmeric for the thyroid? She very recently started taking multivitamins with iodine and selenium, as well as eating fish again like she use to.

    Reply

  78. Incredibly thorough. Fabulous job. Ayervedic doctor told me Turmeric 1tsp. In very warm milk with black pepper and a small pad of butter just before bed. Its also delicious.

    Reply

  79. Hello,

    I got Melanoma and i take also curcumine supplement. I take it in an liquid form. One capsule contents 500mg curcumine. They say about this form off supplement iT is 185 times better absorbable by the body then other supplements. How many off these you think i should take daily? Thans in advanced for your reply.

    Reply

  80. Hi , i’m 56 yrs old male , i have Psoriatic Arthritis , and Osteoarthritis for the last 20 years , i have been treated by a rheumatologist , my concern is the drugs they prescribe hav so many bad side effects , including immune suppression , i lice in Indonesia they have a root here called kurnia , i believe its turmeric fresh , how much of this root can i consume a day to relieve chronic pain , in my knees

    Reply

  81. Hello, I am consuming approximately 12 oz of warm water with 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric, juice of 1/2 of a lemon, and maybe an 1/8 teaspoon of cracked black pepper first thing in the morning before eating anything. I then wait 15 minutes before eating breakfast. I’m doing this just as preventative maintenance. I’m not that knowledgeable in this field at all and have not done much research. Would love your input.

    Reply

  84. Can you take curcumin if you are susceptible to kidney stones? I have no large colon. Had a j-pouch reversal. Since then, I’ve been plagued with kidney stones. Would like to take tumeric but here it is high in oxalates. So thinking the curcumin may be better for me?
    Thoughts?

    Reply

  85. Hello, in your article you suggested not to take a high dose for a long term 8mg. In regards to cancer what would you consider long term? 6mths, 12mths. Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi Allison. Thank you for your question. We generally mention that in case of general health or minor health conditions. However for cancer, there is a need for high dose curcumin and hence the long term guideline does not really fit here. If you have tried it for 8 weeks and if you see no difference, then we would advise discontinuing curcumin.
      But if you observe benefits we would recommend 8mg for a longer period of 6-8 months or even 12 months if results are positive. After that for maintenance or even chemopevention, a dose of 1-2 g is recommended. You can discuss this with your doctor as well. Hope this helps.

      Reply

  86. With both fresh & dried powder forms – and to some extend extracts (but less so) the longer term issue is the oxalate content – which is quite high. This means those prone to kidney stones or gout should avoid larger doses, and all should keep to you guidelines above for chronic use. Extracts will depend on the level of oxalates in the extract. Cautions re combining with black pepper products, and some with gall bladder conditions.

    I Like this guy:

    https://nutritionfacts.org/video/who-shouldnt-consume-curcumin-or-turmeric/

    Reply

  88. I mix with peanut butter for absorption. If it has the piperine in it already, gives the peanut butter a great kick. Eat with celery or any vegetable.

    Reply

  89. I have been diagnose with Lichen Planus as a result of a HEP B vaccination shot. I have been taking Trumeric Solary brand 300mg for the the week along with eating the powder in my foods but have seen no improvements. I would even go on to say it has worsen. Any advice?

    Reply

  90. How do you get a biologically more potent curcumin from the dried powder when using it at home for medicine purposes ? to word it differently apart from cooking is there any other way to make turmeric more biologically available by house hold method

    Reply

  91. I’ve been taking 1 – 750mg of Turmeric w/black pepper extract capsule twice a day, morning and evening. Those annoying body aches that I used to feel while trying to go to sleep at night are gone. I seldom if ever need to take anything for pain these days. However, my eGFR (kidney filtration rate) has been dropping precipitously. I was holding at 42 for over a year but now it’s dropped to 37. It should be above 60 at my age (62) but ideally around 80. Could my daily consumption of turmeric have anything to do with this?

    Reply

    • Curcumin in turmeric has renoprotective or kidney protective property.
      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3814973/
      So it should actually improve the kidney function rather than affect its parameters adversely. Other dietary factors could also be involved in this. You could consider reducing the dosage or discontinue the use of supplements totally. Ensure they are good quality supplements. Please consult a health practitioner soon with regards to your kidney health.

      Reply

  92. I was taking turmeric capsules from Vitacost, but they gave me terrible diarrhea, so I had to stop. The company told me that its tumeric is a very concentrated form. Because of my osteoarthritis, I still need turmeric for anti-inflammatory purposes; nothing else seems to work quite as well. So now I am taking the kitchen spice, which is a less concentrated form. I’ve started with 1/4 teaspoon a day and will work up to 1 teasp. to find the right balance for me.

    Reply

  93. I would question the 3 grams of fresh root Vs 3 grams of powder. Probably 75% of the fresh root is water: so I would assume you would get more phytochemicals with the dried root. This would lead me to think that you would need as much as 4 times the fresh root than the powder. If you buy that then I would think that 3 grams of powder would probably require 12 grams of fresh root. Do you think these assumptions are wrong for some reason that I don’t understand?

    Reply

    • Have you heard of caloric restriction diets for diabetes? Look into it, for real. Fasting, fasting-mimicking diet, and calorie restricted diets have all shown an ability to actually restart insulin production, i.e., to cure diabetes. Doctors are pretty constrained by what they know and what the “best practices” are, and this info about eliminating diabetes — ending it, for good — is pretty new. I urge you to look into it. Gabriel Cousens takes a certain approach, and has a pretty cool documentary online where he invited 5 people (I think) with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes to partake in a 30 day raw food diet, and all of them improved and even one guy with type 1 stopped taking insulin. It’s not much to go on, but as you look into it you will find the studies that have been done with caloric restriction diets that put the kibosh on diabetes.

      Best

      Reply

  95. Me again- I just read the comments below and see that it does address the pepper question I had. Thanks for the information.
    Also is 1tsp good for cancer prevention?

    Reply

  96. Fund this very interesting and it answered the question I had about dosage.
    You didn’t mention taking it with pepper, which I have been told enhance the effect. I’m wondering if that’s true.

    Reply

  97. I take about 1/2 to a full tea spoon per day in total. In morning coffee and late night hot choc. It eases my depression i believe. I like it, I am now a life-long fan

    Reply

    • Laura, its great to hear that turmeric as a spice benefits you and relieves depressive symptoms. Wish you great health!

      Reply

  98. I bought some Turmeric capsules online recently and the directions said to take them 20-30 minutes before a meal with water. The capsules contain BioPerine. Everything else I’ve read says to take capsules with a fatty meal for absorption. Do these instructions seem correct? I’ve never seen any other capsules that recommend taking with water. I just went the best absorption.

    Reply

    • Hi. Yes manufacturer’s suggested dose and recommendations do differ with every supplement. We would suggest taking them after a meal for better absorption with dietary fat.

      Reply

  99. A friend advised that turmeric (powder in capsule) should only be taken on an empty stomach. I see an opposite viewpoint on this, so can you tell me your experience? Also, I bought the Frontier organic, medium-grind black pepper. Is there really no peperine in it?

    Reply

    • Hi. There is no such rule that turmeric should be or should not be taken on an empty stomach. There are two reasons why we suggest to avoid turmeric on an empty stomach:
      1.If you are prone to acid reflux, then taking high dose turmeric capsule or powder on empty stomach may trigger similar symptoms. This is only in those who are susceptible to developing acid reflux.
      2.If taken after meals, then the food as well as the fat content will aid in absorption of curcumin.

      So it is advised to take turmeric after meals.

      The brand of black pepper you mentioned has piperine, any ground black pepper powder will contain piperine. Piperine is the active constituent of black pepper and is responsible for its pungent taste. It is a volatile compound.

      Therefore it is advised to use freshly ground black pepper; pre-ground or store bought black pepper may lose piperine content given the fact that it is volatile.
      We would suggest storing the black pepper powder in air tight container and it can still be used with turmeric. Whenever possible do try to use fresh black pepper.

      Reply

  100. Hey – just trying Pukka Gold Tumeric Tea with added black pepper infusing for 15 mins – I suffer with Rhumatoid Arthritis and take Methotrexate by pen -how many cups of tea per day would you suggest beneficial

    Reply

  101. I think i only makes sense you would want to take higher doses when you dont feel well. I always did it instinctively when i felt sick just overdose on turmeric. Good to know its a good thing haha.
    Very well written article mate keep it up. never thought so many people would read about turmeric i mean over 500 comments wow.

    Reply

  102. When I use Tumeric, I use the fresh organic root. I break off about a finger sized piece and put it in the food processor with the same amount of ginger and grind it up. Then I pour about 4 cups of hot water over the top and let it steep to make a tea. Then I add a little ground black pepper corn and drink it throughout the day. Is this a good way to get the benefits of the turmeric?

    Reply

  103. I took powdered turmuric last year with black pepper because of weakness and poor health. My white hair started going darker. I started taking it for 2-3 weeks again and it is going darker again. Is that a normal side effect? I do not wantt o stop taking it. I take about 1 teaspoonful a day. thank you

    Reply

    • Hi. There has been no report in terms of clinical evidence about darkening of hair with turmeric consumption. Please consult a health practitioner about this. If you are experiencing any other side effects please avoid taking turmeric.

      Reply

  104. I have a Sacroiliac Joint (SI) injury which my physician prescribed Ibuprofen 600 mg per day; 3 times a day for inflammation. I also take a blood pressure medicine (Losarten) that is has an interaction with the ibuprofen. There is really nothing that I can take OTC for inflammation. I am willing to try this route for 3 months and see if I can get rid of this lower back pain! What dosage of turmeric/ginger/ black pepper would you suggest?

    Reply

  105. I suffer from anxiety and depression for the last 5 years. I started taking Jamieson Tumeric Curcumin 550mg about 5 days ago. I take 2 capsules a day., one in the morning and one at night. I take this along with Zoloft, Trazadone and diazepam. In the 5 days, I had two very good days but three not so good. I was not doing well at all before the Tumeric. Is this the right dosage for me and when can I expect complete relief?

    Reply

    • Hi. The dose used in studies assessing curcumin’s effect on depression is 1000mg. Do the supplements contain piperine? If not, do opt for curcumin piperine supplements next time. As of now, you can take these supplements after a meal so that dietary fat or addition of black pepper to the meals aids in absorption of curcumin. Maintain at least a 3 hour gap between taking curcumin and any medication.
      The studies indicate that at least a 4 week period is required to observe decrease in depressive symptoms with curcumin supplementation. The supplements used in studies are curcumin-bioperine/piperine combination or BCM-95. You can read more about this here:
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-benefits/can-turmeric-help-in-depression

      Reply

  106. In a previous article you state pepper / piperine should be taken with tumeric / curcumin for better results due to the pepper helping release the “biozavailability” of the tumeric. However I did not see in either article the approximate ratio of tumeric to pepper to provide the optimum bemefits of both.

    can you please provide an approximate ratio? I realize there are several facturs that may be involved here but let’s assume tumeric powder and pepper as the ingredients.

    thanks.

    Reply

    • Hi. There is no definite ratio of turmeric to black pepper as such. In supplements the ratio used is 1: 100 that is 1000mg standardized 95% curcumin comes with 10mg piperine. Both curcumin and piperine are active ingredients of turmeric and black pepper respectively, so it is difficult to imitate this ration in real life. But to keep things simple 1/4 to 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper for 1 tsp turmeric powder should suffice. Hope this helps.

      Reply

  107. I have made golden paste with Turmeric,coconut oil and pepper. My mum suffers very bad arthritis but also has to take warfrin so cant take any anti inflammatories.Is it safe for her to take the Turmeric paste daily,Does anyone know?

    Reply

  108. Something does not match. you say that the max dose of turmeric is 3 grams per day or 400–600 mg of curcumin per day but according to this reliable study from pubmed.gov http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17044766 only 3.14% of turmeric is curcumin, so that means that 3.14% of 3 grams is 94.2 mg not 400 – 600 mg of curcumin per day, so what is the right dose of curcumin, 94.2 mg or 400–600 mg per day? thanks

    Reply

    • Hi. When we mention about ideal turmeric dosage we are talking about maximum turmeric powder one can consume per day without any side effects and also receive benefits. This does not apply to curcumin powder or supplements because in this case curcumin is extracted from turmeric and its formulation is optimized. So for curcumin in studies, the dosage as high as 8-12g has been tested. And it is found to be safe as well.
      3g per day is a safe and beneficial amount of turmeric powder for most individuals but some individuals susceptible to acid reflux may prefer a lesser dose. Hope this helps.

      Reply

  110. I use root turmeric blitzed in a food processor and then frozen in an ice cube tray, i also add a small amount of black pepper to every amount of turmeric. Each frozen cube weighs approx 15g, i take this once every day, give or take 1 or 2. I mix the turmeric with lemon juice, concentrate cherry juice, a pinch of cinnamon and add hot water, i know it sounds a mad concoction but i like it. I had been taking turmeric powder for at least a year or so and have now been on root for nearly another year. My reason for taking this mad concoction is because i suffer from gout attacks that can leave me bed/settee (couch) ridden for up to 3 weeks as the attacks are normally in my ankle. My last attack was May 2016 its now 31 march 2017. Im convniced that the turmeric has a lot to do with this. I have read the guidelines on how much to take each day but how can anyone be sure what is the right amount, obviously the frozen cube has certain amount of moisture content so 15g is not the true weight.

    Reply

    • Hi Iain. Thank you for sharing your experience. Since you have experienced reduction in gout attacks and no side effects, it clearly indicates that the dose of turmeric you are taking daily suits your body and just enough for health benefits minus any side effects. Please continue with your regime. Wish you great health!

      Reply

    • The lemon juice in your ice cubes is also known to break down the sharp edges on the crystaline uric acid in your joints a small amount of concentrated lemon juice and water 1/8 has big effects on gout pain bringing it down in a third of the time enjoy good for you.

      Reply

  111. Hi, My Mum has a brain disorder, is not 100% confirmed yet, but they think it could be ‘Cerebal Amyloid Angiopathy’ she’s showing signs of a stroke with loss of use of her arm and difficulty in walking. I have been looking for natural remedies online and Tumeric seems to keep cropping up. My question is how does one ingest this? Would you stir it into a drink, honey perhaps? I see the dosage is around 1tsp of powder daily. Any information would be much appreciated – thanks.

    Reply

  112. I am new to understanding herbs, but have been taking Zyflamend for about 3 years for arthritis. For me, works great. But I have been worried about long term use. In looking at individual ingredients, I read where turmeric can have some side effects. Your website has been pointing out the differences in large doses and preventive doses. Can you help me better understand this level of dosage of turmeric in Zyflamend: Turmeric (Curcuma longa) (rhizome) 10 mg organic supercritical extract and 100 mg hydroethanolic extract = 110 mg. Based on mg, seems small. But I know the different extract methods can impact dosages (from what I have been told).

    Reply

    • I may have answered my own question. Looks like I need to find the concentration levels used by New Chapter with this product. Most likely it is 10:1 or higher. If it is 10x, then the 110 mg of turmeric would be 1.1 grams of dry powder. If my thinking is not correct, let me know.

      Reply

    • Hi. Yes different extraction and formulation methods do affect the absorbption or bioavailability of the compound. 110mg however seems as like a relative safe dose. You can consult a herbalist or naturopath about this as well.

      Reply

    • My health is very poor. and I look forward to any relief that I reap from the ingestion of tumeric I have loaded large capsules that hold 1/2 gm each I am presently taking 1 gm each morning.

      Reply

  113. Your 1 teaspoon recommendation, is that level or heaping? Do you recommend drinking the dregs? I just started making my own turmeric powder/lemon juice morning tea (thinking about adding ginger powder) first thing in the morning on empty stomach. Would it work better taken with meal? No noticeable decrease in swelling. Should I add a second course at night? How important (or not) with/without food? Thanks.

    Reply

    • By 1 tsp we mean level. But that actually depends on what suits you and how much your stomach can tolerate. Some take as much 1-2 tablespoon of Golden Paste a day while some are fine on just 1 tsp a day. Turmeric as a tea is great but you are not experiencing any benefits you can take it twice a day. Adding ginger is a plus.
      Also turmeric is poorly soluble in water and is better absorbed when taken with fats and/or black pepper. So you can take Golden Paste. https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste
      Taking after meals helps with two things: dietary fat in the meal helps in absorption and also reduces acid reflux like symptom in case you are susceptible to it. Though not compulsory, taking after meals is beneficial.

      Reply

      • I have what’s called vulvadina ( chronic vaginal pain for no known reason or cause) I am on Gabapenton which helps but I still have pain and I keep on having to go up in the dosage. The Drs just want to throw more druges at me and I don’t even like taking the gabapenton so I certainly don’t want to add to it. I thought I would give Tumeric Extract a try. I thought I’d use the supplement capsules. Do you think that would work for me? What dosage do you recommend. I do tend to get acid reflux which I take omprenazole for. Do you think it would make it worse? I’m so fed up and frustrated with this pain I’m just about willing to risk it. Thank you for your help.

        Reply

        • The cause for vulvodynia is unknown and generally is treated with antidepressant. Curcumin iand turmeric are natural antidepressants and thus may help. However there isnt any evidence available regarding turmeric’s efficacy in vulvodynia.
          If taking capsules it is advisable to consult a health practitioner about the dosage. Always start with a low dose and avoid taking it on an empty stomach. Keep a 3-4 hour gap between taking turmeric supplement and other medicines.

          Reply

  114. Hi, thank you for this information. I have extremely itchy skin & have tried many different things to help. I am currently taking a turmeric supplement that has: “Tumeric Root Extract (Curcuma Longa) 1200 mg & Tumeric 95% Curcuminoids 100 mg & BioPerine (Black Pepper Extract) 10 mg.” This is per two caps. I have been taking 2 caps per day & the results have been great until this last week when the crazy bad itching resumed. Would it be okay to take 4 caps per day?? Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • 30 ml juiced root twice a day is safe. Say you can add about 1 or 2 half inch pieces of fresh turmeric to other components or as a part of other veggies or fruits you would be combining.

      Reply

  116. Been reading comments on Turmeric and have to put my oar in. I have been using the paste myself for months now and am very fond of it. I have RA, 3 CKD, fibromyalgia. I am 74. I don’t take meds well so was so willing to try this. I use my paste in coconut milk with local raw honey for sweetener and add some ceylon cinnamon and of course, coconut oil. This I take in the late evening and it is such a sleep aid, I can’t even begin to tell you! Over all, I am doing very well by it. There have been times when I have missed a dose and missed is the operative word. I do love it. I use a teaspoon of the paste, more or less, in my brew. I take nothing for the RA at all. I was on Methotrexate and it stopped working. Not a fan of increasing this kind of medicine to ‘fix’ what really can’t be fixed. The turmeric drink seems to be keeping me in a good place. I am reasonably pain-free and get about freely. My suggestion would be to try it if you have doubts. Why wouldn’t you? It won’t hurt you even if it’s not for you. Stop if you don’t like it. It could really help you. Eclipse

    Reply

    • Thank you for your response. I have psoriasis really bad and the dermatologist put me on Methotrexate for that. I am also having issues with my ankle swelling and one of my toes. The dermatologist told me the ankle swelling was probably arthritis. I have been taking cinnamon and honey. It may have helped a little but it still hurts. I am going to try your mixture. Thanks again

      Reply

  117. Hi there!

    Myself and my husband have just started taking Turmeric paste. My question is this.In July we will be motoring around Europe. As the paste has to be refrigerated how can we carry on taking it? Does it have to be refrigerated or is there an alternative? Many thanks.

    Reply

    • Hi. It really depends on the climate and how long you travel. Readers do freeze the paste and carry a small batch while traveling. However you can also check the page http://www.turmericforhealth.com and under the worldwide shipping tab there are alternatives of carrying pre-packaged golden paste while traveling.

      Reply

  118. Personal observations.
    Background: Stroke 1994. Hypertension and meds for that: Coversyl Novum 5mg, Norvasc 10mg and Emconcor 2,5mg per day.
    2010-2015 strange neurological disorder (bloodpressure peaking, cold, limbs going to spastic, collapse, ambulance arrive, hustle, “Quick!! He is going to…” SNAP! Bloodpressure normalized a few seconds and nothing but stupified look on the face of doctors.)
    5 years of that and i start experimenting of curcumin. Newer find what was wrong with me. MRI taken and was OK.
    – 3-4 g Standardized powder per day. After 3 week my disorder was gone and i was hooked. First left that nightmarish sudden coldness (mystically my disorder started always somewhere 8-11 pm), and gradually all of my symptoms was gone. Now third year going and nothing wrong.
    – 6 g and i start remember my dreams. Moving back to 3g per day and dreams are gone. Would you believe that! Fascinating!
    – 7 g – 11g per day. Nightmares. Sorry to say but must be something to do with my stroke or combination of my meds. Or stroke and meds.
    – 17g of standardized powder. At once. Well that was stupid experiment!! It was like pint of ale. And you can imagine how you can eat 17g powder…
    Afterwords: Experiment. Everybody is different. Age, weight etc.

    Reply

    • Very interesting. I’ve been taking turmeric for several months now for neurological pain. Fantastic 85% reduction.
      Like a miracle.1/2 tsp , 4 times a day of golden paste. The reason Im replying to your post is that after nearly 2 years of not having any dreams I am also dreaming. Very bizarre.

      Reply

  119. I have arthritis, inflammation issues as well as stage 3 CKD so can not take any anti-inflamatories. I have purchased Curcumin supplements containing 1500mg (95% Curcuminoids), 140mg Ginger, 10mg BioPerine. Is this safe with reduced renal function? No potassium numbers are on the label but is there a risk of increased potassium intake with these supplements?

    Reply

    • Hi. Curcumin supplements are highly purified so definitely there is no risk of increased potassium intake. 1500mg is a large dose to start with. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach and close to the time of taking other medicines.

      Reply

  120. Hi I am taking a 3-4 week cleansing diet to deal with inflammation. Turmeric will be a big part of this (as well as avoiding certain inflammatory producing foods). I have some experience with turmeric (fresh) teas and also supplements.

    How much turmeric is too much in combination? For example, I have supplements (650mg curcumin with perine) and thinking of taking 1 pill 3x /day. Can i also have fresh turmeric tea or the golden milk with paste?

    Thanks!
    Marcel

    Reply

    • 1000mg a day in the form of supplements should suffice, so in your case 1-2 a day should be enough. 1 cup of turmeric tea or milk which would have roughly 1 tsp of turmeric powder or paste should not be an issue. Start with a low dose of supplement while keeping a standard dietary intake of turmeric and increase supplement dosage gradually to avoid gastric discomfort.

      Reply

  121. To TurmericForHealth;
    Thank you so much for this very helpful site. How wonderful that you want to help people, Many of us mortals tend to become very mistrustful and skeptical of health related anything if we have had any dealings with ill health; the field is rampant with abuse. It is so refreshing to see genuine caring. Bless you.

    Reply

  122. I had 2 stents inserted for a blocked artery 18mths ago. My doctor has advised that I should take low dose aspirin daily for the rest of my life. Can I safely take 1 teaspoon turmeric daily as well.
    Thank you for a great site.

    Reply

    • Hi Steve. We would suggest starting with a smaller dose say 1/4 tsp of turmeric for a week. Gradually build it to 1 teaspoon but in divided doses over the day and mixed with meals. Dietary turmeric is safe and gradual increase will help your body get accustomed to it and will help you to rule out any chances of side effects. It will also help as an anti-coagulant.

      Reply

  123. I have folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle) & been using turmeric on & off for the past year. My condition is getting on my last nerve lol so I plan to be disciplined with the turmeric now. I’ve only taken it in the nastiest possible way & that was just simply putting it in hot water & putting some pepper in it. This is why I was on & off with it lol. I’ve known about the golden milk recipe but have yet to try it. I’ve read several comments that say 1 tsp of turmeric powder A DAY will suffice. Then I read that you suggest using half of a teaspoon of pepper if I use a teaspoon of the powder. Well I definitely was using more than that for both. My order of Starwest Botanicals Turmeric Root Powder Organic Curcuma Longa arrived a couple of days ago. I’ve only used it 3 times, twice in hot water, & once sprinkled in my vegetables. I use the same amount each time (because I don’t know what I’m doing lol), & that’s a heaping teaspoon of turmeric powder. Please tell me if I’m using too much or not enough. Do I use a teaspoon or tablespoon? Am I only suppose to use it once a day or multiple times a day? Do I use it in every meal or just one meal a day? Is my hot water w/pepper the best way for it to be consumed or is it golden milk. Should I use Almond or Coconut milk. HELP!!!!

    Reply

  124. Hi, Thank you so much for this site, very informative. I’m 55 and was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the Spine about 2 months ago which is no big deal considering i’ve smashed by body up over the years doing sports, riding horses etc. Anyhow, being sensitive intolerant I ditched all the Dr’s chemical treatments and started taking Flora Force 100% pure Curcuma Longa. I stupidly took 2 capsules of 500mg 3 times a day (felt awesomely great) until after about six weeks I came out in hives on my middle body overnight. Very uncomfortable and itchy as hell. After a couple of days hives then disappeared from my trunk and moved up to my neck area, highly embarrassing, making me look like a recovering burn victim. So obviously I stopped the tumeric completely and got prescribed steroids and allergy drugs to get rid of the reaction. After about 10 days the hives disappeared and I then took one tumeric of 500mg, but of course still being a numpty, I only took the capsule on its own without any complimentary oil, black pepper etc. So now I have huge bags developed overnight under my eyes (was a sympton of before as well). So Tumeric is worth persevering with, you just have to find ways to ensure your body can absorb it correctly. Another comment that was made above was not to take turmeric at the same time as other medication. This is good to know because maybe that didn’t help me either. I love the milk, tumeric and coconut drink idea. I’m going to see how it goes from here on in. Thanks again for all the information.

    Reply

    • Hi. Please start with low doses of turmeric say 1/8- 1/4 tsp in diet. If you still face any sort of reactions then may be you are allergic to turmeric. Ensure that you get good quality organic turmeric free from additives. Also it is important to take it with black pepper and/or oil for better absorption. Avoid taking turmeric supplements or Golden Paste at the same time as other meds since both turmeric and black pepper interfere in drug metabolism.

      Reply

  125. Hi,

    Just want to know to make tumeric milk, do we always have to boil it? Can I just put small amount of hot water then mix tumeric powder and add cold milk then drink?

    Reply

  126. Hi there,
    My husband was diagnosed with a grade 4 Glioblastoma in his brain on the 18/10/16 at the age of 24. Since then we have been living in hospital then hospice and now we are home. We have come very close to losing him and even have said our goodbyes but he keeps bouncing back and we are fighting hard. We are looking at alternative treatments. He is currently on 8mg of Dexamethasone daily which I wish to reduce eventually if possible and replace with high doses of turmeric. How much turmeric would you recommend me start him on and how much would you recommend I should build up too?
    I look forward to your reply.
    Thanks heaps

    Reply

  127. It’s been suggested that Tumeric can deactivate or possibly cure HSV 1+2. What do you know regarding this and what recommend? I’ve been eating 1/2 inch of tumeric root a day.

    Reply

  128. Hi I bought some Turmeric Curcumin 1000 mg with Black pepper extract is it ok to take that when first starting this or should I start out with a lower dose?

    Reply

    • It is advisable to start with a lower dose. But since these pills are already in 1000mg formulation there isnt a way you could start with a lower dose. Avoid taking them on an empty stomach and also do not take them at the same time as other meds. Keep a 3-4 hour gap between other meds and turmeric if you are taking any.

      Reply

      • When you say avoid taking the turmeric supplements with other meds, does that include other supplements? I currently take fish oil, prenatal vitamins, probiotics and liquid chlorophyll.
        Would I take the turmeric supplement at a different time?

        Reply

        • Curcumin interferes in drug metabolism and hence we recommend taking it a different time then when taking any other medicine. There is no specific study done regarding the particular supplements you mentioned. Fish oil and probiotics may help increase absorption of turmeric if taken concomitantly. Depending on the pathway of absorption and metabolism, it may or may not affect the other two but it is best to keep a gap to be safe.

          Reply

  130. I would like to use turmeric for symptoms of stress, I understand that low doses inhibit cortisol production and high doses increase. If I suspect high evening cortisol how much fresh root would be good to have at night to lower cortisol levels? I am thinking of making a turmeric tea.

    Reply

  131. Hi, I’ve just found your website. Is it good for my health if I make turmeric drink every day?

    The way I’m doing it is like this: I use one teasppon of ground turmeric and put it in boiling water, brewing it for 10 minutes. Then I’ll add honey to taste.

    Do you think it is good enough for my health?

    Thank you

    Reply

    • Yes this is a great recipe. 10 minutes is a good time. Limit the honey intake. You can also add ground or fresh ginger and 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder. This will definitely benefit your health.

      Reply

  132. I was wondering, as I haven’t heard of anything yet in my search, that will help one overcome the sensitivity to stomach issues. It appeared to show a bit higher dosage above for that but how would you advise increasing when they are having upset stomach? Also besides the common upset stomach, i’ve actually had a client or two that are Allergic and can’t take turmeric, any suggestions to increase her tolerance? She has fibromyalgia and would love a natural alternative- I have one but it has turmeric in it and I believe she gets very ill and thus claims she is “allergic” to it…help! Trying to give this recommend this natural alternative to so many anti-inflammatory OTCs but more than usual are having side effects and having to quit..

    Reply

    • Hi. Thank you for your query. Firstly if one has not tried turmeric ever then its advisable to not take it or take small doses or in a form like turmeric milk. So if taking turmeric for upset stomach, it is advisable to take small doses such as 1/4 tsp 1-2 a day. Also do not increase the dose of turmeric during a stomach upset.
      Stomach sensitivity as you mention, can be overcome by gradual introduction of turmeric in diet. Say 1/8 -1/4 tsp in diet every day for a week and then if no side effects are observed then increase by 1/4 tsp every week. Increasing turmeric dose gradually will reduce gastric side effects.
      Turmeric supplements should be avoided in such conditions for they are at a fairly high dose.
      Allergy of turmeric could only be identified by contact dermatitis or if they have consumed turmeric alone say as a spice or supplement but not mixed with other ingredients and experienced allergic reactions. So even by taking less than 1/8 tsp of turmeric as a spice (powder or grated fresh roots) if they are facing allergy problems then they should avoid turmeric.
      Ginger would actually be a great alternative to turmeric in case of stomach upset and for pain but if she is allergic to turmeric then quite likely she will have an allergic reaction with ginger.

      Reply

    • Hi. We have haven’t across any reports that suggest that this particular fatty acid CLA can help in absorption of curcumin so we can’t guarantee whether it will help in absorption of turmeric. However you can always opt for olive or coconut oil.

      Reply

  134. I’m glad you mentioned that high doses can cause ulcers, since the reason I’m taking turmeric is because I had to take naproxen for another issue and it gave me an ulcer. My doc is good with turmeric, but I’d forgotten to ask what dosage was safe. In any event, I’ll stick in the low range and discuss with her.

    Reply

    • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder a day is sufficient to reap health benefits. You can take Golden Paste. Start with small doses such as 1/4-1/2 tsp and if you see no side effects then increase the dose gradually to 1 tsp 2-3 times a day over a few weeks. With gradual increment you can ascertain what dose works best for you.
      Best taken with food to avoid acid reflux. Avoid taking it at the same time when you take other meds.
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste

      Reply

      • I have colon cancer and have been taking Golden Paste for the last 4 weeks. I have increased the dose gradually and I am almost up to the maximum of 1tsp three times a day. How long is it safe to take it at this dosage. I am due for a scan in a couple of weeks.

        Reply

    • How much powder turmeric from a grocery store should one take for inflamation problems in the fingers? Being a musician this is Important to me. I take 3 doses of 3 ibuprofen a few days before playing and it seems to help. I want to use turmeric instead for I have an ulcer too that I need to be careful of.

      Should. He using turmeric from a health food store? I heard the best way to take it is to cook with it. I’m sincerely asking because it deals wto th my livelihood.

      Thank you for your time.

      Reply

  135. Good day. I am able to buy fresh turmeric root easily in the area where I live. May I kindly ask for a recipe using freah turmeric root. I would greatly appreciate your help. Thank you.

    Reply

    • I make my standard rattitoule (sp) and add fresh turmeric root. It’s delicious and you would never know it has been added. recipe is: sauté red onion, zuchinni, yellow squash and all colors of peppers in olive oil, red wine vinegar and fresh minced garlic. then add a can of stewed tomatoes. then take some of the juicy mixture and fresh turmeric root and put it in a blender, then add back to the full mixture. At the last minute top with fresh spinach till wilted. Serve topped with black olives and feta cheese. DELICIOUS as a side dish or over spaghetti as a veggeterian dish. You can add different veggies as you like.

      Reply

      • Hi Mary. This is an interesting recipe and a great way of incorporating fresh turmeric in diet. Thank you for sharing this.

        Reply

      • I Have been peeling and slicing several fingers of fresh tumeric as well as ginger, with 2 or 3 cups of good water. Boiling for several minutes aND then steeping until cool, then I run it all through my magic bullet juicer a few times until smooth. Store in glass jar in fridge.
        I take about hAlf cup mix with milk and a bit of honey or maple syrup 2 times a day.
        Hope it’s not too much , I’m feeling much better.

        Reply

  136. I have polycystic disease in both kidneys, my liver and other internal organs. I also have osteoarthritis in the lower left side f my spine and a synovial cyst in the right lower spine. Can you tell me please whether taking turmeric will help any or all of these conditions and the best way for me to take it?

    Reply

    • Turmeric should help with polycystic disease and osteoarthritis. You can take Golden Paste. Start with 1/4-1/2 tsp a day and increase to 1-2 tsp 2-3 times a day gradually or how it suits you. Take it with or after meals. Avoid taking it close to the time of taking other medicines to avoid side effects.
      You can also consume Turmeric Milk.
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/benefits-of-turmeric-milk

      Reply

    • I have severe spinal stenosis, herniated and bulging disc and unstable spine. I have been in pain daily for more than 2 yrs. I have been taking 2gm of tumuric every morning and it helps but by 8pm my pain comes back with vengeance so before bed or earlier I resort to ibuprofen 800mg with Prilosec . However, this has been daily for over 2 1/2 yrs. I don’t want to take Motrin any more but not sure if I can go up on tumuric. I refuse to have surgery but still remain in pain. Please advise

      Reply

      • Hi Teresa. So turmeric is helping you to reduce the pain but the action is not long lasting. Are you taking it with black pepper and fats for these will help in absorption of active ingredients of turmeric. Also take it after meals so that dietary fat helps in absorption. Also are you using good quality organic turmeric?
        You could make the Golden Paste. The recommended way of taking it is 1/2-1/4 tsp a day and gradually increase to 1-2 tsp 2-3 times a day or how it suits you. But since you are already taking turmeric for more than 2 years this should not give you gastric side effects. You can take 1/4-1/2 tsp every day at a 3 hour interval. Spreading your dose over the day will deliver adequate amount and at regular time intervals. Avoid taking it on empty stomach since you suffer from acidity and don’t take it close to any other medication.
        https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste
        Hope this helps. Also look for a second opinion regarding your health condition.

        Reply

        • I took 2 cap=2000mg tonight inflamin turmeric extract(curcuma longa) (curcumin C3 complex) (standardized to 95% curcuminoids) (rhizome) Sabinsa corporation distributed by core science medica

          Took total in 24hr 4000mg
          I am concerned about taking to much ibuprofen because it can have cardiac side effects and I have hypertension and hyperlipidemia I hope the higher dose will work but I will try the paste you suggested were do you recommend to get the turmeric for the paste

          Reply

          • Hi Teresa. 4000mg in 1 day is a fairly high dose. Are you sure that your condition requires that high a dose? Turmeric can definitely help in hypertension, hyperlipidemia and pain.
            You can take Golden Paste. Start with small doses such as 1/4-1/2 tsp and if you see no side effects then increase the dose gradually to 1-2 tsp 2-3 times a day over a few weeks. Also when taking the paste please reduce the supplement dose since 4g curcumin is pretty high.
            Best taken with food to avoid acid reflux. Avoid taking it at the same time when you take other meds.
            https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste
            For good brands of turmeric please check:
            http://www.turmericforhealth.com

      • Hi
        In response to Teresa, I have chronic back pain and am still in the process to find out the cause. For the last five months I had problems lying down or sitting as pain kicks in badly. I’ve started taking turmeric 20 drops and Devil’s Claw 15 drops both in tincture 1:2. I take that mixed with coconut oil a tea spoon or olive oil, a pinch of black pepper to activate turmeric. I take it mixed with luke warm water twice a day, after breakfast and after dinner. So far amazing results as I had finally a good sleep and with no pain. Also I am better during the day and I can move better! I am trying to do gentle stretch on a mat, even only 15 min can make a huge difference. Also, I am listening Hypnotherapy guy on YouTube for pain management and that is helping relaxing a lot before going to bed. My suggestion is that you try to avoid taking ibuprofen as it lowers your immune system and is hard on liver and kidneys. Devil’s claw is a very useful natural painkiller and together with Turmeric 3-4 times a day it should make a huge difference.
        Finally, do some research on Glucosamine Sulphate (I met an old guy who has DDD and finds huge benefits from taking this) and homeopathic Tissue Salts and Silica which help with mineral deficiency in the tissues and bones.

        I hope this helps!

        All the best
        Kat

        Reply

        • Hey Kat, Have you tried checking in with a chiropractor? I’d research and ask around to find what feels right and i trust mine and refer to him all the time and I’m a massage therapist. There are good and bad ones out there but I’d go to one before a traditional Dr, and they prefer natural healing to drugs. Hope you feel better!

          Reply

      • Teresa,
        Please make sure your blood pressure is under control.
        I quit Ibuprofen despite episodes of intense pain…
        eventually causing my blood pressure to skyrocket and I had a major stroke…
        immediately following one of these major pain episodes.
        Ideally, I would have checked BP in the middle of a pain session and realized,
        something must be done to intervene…some countermeasure.
        God be with you, Teresa.

        Reply

      • I’m hope some replies to your comment w knowledge because you are going thru too much pain. I understand more than you would know. Has timer of helped you? I really want to know. I asked a question myself as to the dosage of ground turmeric from a grocery store and jace not got a reply. My thoughts are with you. Teddy P

        Reply

        • Hi. Ground turmeric from grocery store is same as turmeric powder right? The ideal dose is 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder a day. However it is always advised to start with small doses.
          Ground turmeric or turmeric powder is best taken with black pepper and oil. You can take Golden Paste. Start with small doses such as 1/4-1/2 tsp and if you see no side effects then increase the dose gradually to 1-2 tsp 2-3 times a day over a few weeks. Best taken with food to avoid acid reflux. Avoid taking it at the same time when you take other meds. https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste

          Reply

          • Can I also take this with cumin? Several years ago, I started having episodes of stomach pain which was diagnosed as gallstones.

            After my 3rd episode within an 18- month period, a friend researched and found the combination of turmeric, cumin, and curry along with olive oil breaks down the stones from forming. Since that 3rd episode, I always keep the three powders available (I had a recent episode a month ago but only had the turmeric and cumin) and within minutes the pain subsides.

            I would go to emergency during the early episodes since the pain would have lasting effects (at one time the doctor wanted to remove my bladder, fortunately the stone had passed when a later scan was done).

            Since then I keep powders both at home and at work.

  137. I have Sjogren’s Syndrome. I just received turmeric powder and added 1 tbl [too much I know] to my morning smoothie with fruits and veggies, mostly fruit. I didn’t add pepper or oil. Should I do so?

    Reply

  138. Hi, from sunny Greece!!!
    I have a question about making the Golden Paste.The dosage you recomend is 11/2 teaspoons of ground black pepper.Do you mean 5,5 teaspoons?
    A second question.
    I have Smoldering Myeloma, that is I don’t have symptoms nor take medication, only have blood tests every three months.
    What would you suggest concerning to turmeric and Golden Paste use?
    Thank you!!!

    Reply

  139. I was skeptical about using the Turmeric, but i was having a severe problem with phylum, coughing every morning, and sometimes during the night, it was suggested i try the 1tsp of turmeric in a cup of warm milk before going to bed and in the morning, and to do this for a couple of days. The next morning I had no phylum, and I have done this for 3 days now, wheezing has calmed down, I appreciate your information on continues use a total of 1 tsp a day. I will divide my dosage into twice a day and add some pepper. Thank you for this valuable information

    Reply

    • Phylum is the wrong word ! You mean Phlegm (pronounced Flem) It is produced in the bronchial tubes of the lungs and is usually coughed up.

      Reply

    • Linda, please keep in mind that milk is one of the things that causes more mucos or phlegm. I do not drink milk for that very reason, plus milk isn’t kind to my digestion. I make turmeric tea according to Dr. Andrew Weil’s instructions plus I add oil so my body will absorb it better. I do not like the taste of turmeric tea so after I make it I drop in a teabag of an organic herbal spice tea blend (no caffeine) that has ginger, cinnamon, cloves and cardemom. Celestial Seasonings makes one called Bengal Spice that is very good. Here’s what I do: I boil two cups of water then add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to the boiling water then simmer it for 10 minutes. I strain it through a very fine mesh coffee filter in my little coffee maker (don’t plug it in, just pour the hot turmeric tea into the mesh basket and close the lid of the coffee maker (a small 4 cup coffee maker) and it will go through the filter and into the small glass pot. I had 1/2 teaspoon of olive or coconut oil and a pinch of black pepper. Then I pour this turmeric tea over a Bengal Spice teabag and let it steep a couple of minutes. The longer Bengal Spice steeps, the sweeter it is (no sugar nor artificial sweeteners). I cannot taste the turmeric tea, only the Bengal Spice, and so I have a flavorful tea that includes the spice tea plus turmeric tea. This helps with my chronic pain. I have found that if I cannot relax it does not do as much for my pain, so I try to drink the tea slowly and
      focus on something positive in a quiet room with low light. This seems to help a great deal. I cannot take any OTC pain relievers, so this is a good thing for me. As I understand it, I can use more than the 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder a day, so I plan to try to drink the tea twice or three times a day right after a meal. Hope this helps you. Some people have no trouble with milk, but it is known to cause problems with mucus in the body.

      Reply

  140. Hi. I would like to ask wich is the amount of pepper or ginger we should add to the turmeric powder or root. It has to be 1 to 1? is it ok to cook it or its better to add it in the end ?
    Hi also would like to know what is the daily dose for small children (3 or less)? A small children can take ir daily also?
    Thanks a lot
    Kindly

    Reply

  141. Hi, I apologize if this is answered in here somewhere. I tried to read through but there’s a lot of comments 🙂
    if i grate turmeric and ginger fresh and store in the refrigerator and add to tea, how many days can that mixture be refrigerated before it loses potency?

    Reply

  142. Hello, I have concered about dosage,please help me.

    I want to take turmeric as suplement, for longer time, just for prevention.
    I found NutriGold Turmeric Curcumin Gold® — 500 mg,with 2.5 mg of bioperine
    It should be used 3 times a day.

    Please tell me is this 3 x 500 mg preventive dosage, and can I use it for longher periods?
    If not, please suggest me dosage

    thanks in advance

    Reply

  143. Hi, I hope you can help. I’m trying to determine the best amount of tumeric to use as a blood thinner to replace having to take Plavix long term. I have 250mg capsules of organic turmerc. Any advice would be a help
    Thanks

    Reply

  144. Some site says that to increase the effect of turmeric, it should be taken together with Black Pepper. What is your suggestion about this?

    Reply

    • Yes it is absolutely recommended to take turmeric with black pepper and /or healthy oils like coconut or olive oil. This helps in absorption of active ingredient of turmeric.

      Reply

  145. I started taking turmeric, capsule form, only once a day (about 550 mg each) about 5 days ago. Woke up this morning with a very itchy rash on the insides of my elbows and on neck. As the day progressed, it is on my back and upper arms. Very uncomfortable and somewhat swollen and warm. I can’t believe I cannot tolerate even this small dose? Any ideas??

    Reply

  146. Hi, is it safe to drink this at night even before you sleep after late dinner (ex fried food)?

    I noticed my mind is always active and I don’t usually feel like sleepy at night even I only have 4-5 hrs of sleep per day.

    I work, think and react fast since I started 3 weeks ago, consuming 1 teaspoon a day after lunch or bef 6pm mealals.

    Is it good effect? I don’t feel comfortable now.

    Thanks and regards!

    Drey.

    Reply

  147. My daughter (19) is fighting inflammation from Lupus and Lyme. What is the therapeutic dosage? 8000mg/day? For how long? She does not want to go back on prednisone. And is it true that you have to take turmeric on and off? Two weeks on and then off for a while before doing it again?
    THANK YOU!!!

    Reply

  148. Hi,

    I have a confusion about the dosage, read the whole post and some other websites.

    It is established that 300-600 mg 3 times per day is recommended, about 1.8 grams a day.

    And I’m seeing that it is advised to consume 1 tsp daily, which 1 tsp = 5 grams roughly.

    So 1.8 grams or 5 grams it is?.

    Thanks in advance to all clarification answers.

    Reply

    • Hi. When the dosage is said 300-600mg that applies to curcumin. 1 teaspoon is the dose for Golden Paste which is made from turmeric powder. Turmeric powder contains 3-5% curcumin on an average. So 5 grams would give you approximately 150-250mg of curcumin. For preventive measures this dose suffices. Also even when you take it for any condition, it is necessary to start with low doses of Golden Paste so that your body gets accustomed to it. You can gradually increase the dose as to how it suits you.

      Reply

      • Thank you very much for your answer. Couldn’t understand what dose was correct.

        I have bought Tumeric powder but it’s not labeled, from a herbs and nuts shop, the person that sells doesn’t know very much in depth of the procedence of products (most of them imported) Tumeric is not easy to get where I live so I bought it. It’s just a transparent plastic bag with Tumeric powder, no labels. I assume is the general one (asked but they didn’t know) and I have to assume haven’t expired (how much last?).

        Again, bought it because it’s the only store I’ve seen have it and is not easy to get here, been consuming it for 2 days and I haven’t feel stomache, despite yesterday by mistake consumed 2 TSP, felt a little different, but no stomache.

        If you have any advises for me I would appreciate it. I am consuming it as prevention.

        Also I don’t take meds but I would like to know if is not advised to consume it with certain specific foods, I mostly consume all organic foods all day. Grounded flax seed, chia, black sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, goji berries, blueberries, grounded coconut, EVOO, milk, fruits.

        Reply

        • Diego, we recommend purchasing good quality organic turmeric powder because the chances of contamination in ordinary brands of turmeric is high. Recently there has been quite some news regarding turmeric being recalled since it was contaminated by lead. We have got a few recommendations in case you need help: http://www.turmericforhealth.com
          Turmeric is a spice and can be consumed and combined with anything in the diet.

          Reply

          • Hi regarding the same, I went to the store again and owner told me they import the Turmeric from Canada. Also it has to pass the local health service to import foods to the country. This is the info he had.

            Should be safer to consume it you say knowing that’s not from India and less likely to have lead? I know you advice only certain brands but do you have any info about importing Turmeric from Canada and if it’s safe?.

            Again, this is the info I have and hopefully you can give me your thoughts about it. It’s the only store I can find Turmeric where I live and can’t afford ordering brands.

            I could send you a picture of the bag I have so you can see texture and color if you want to have more information and give me your thoughts.

            Thank you again.

          • Dear Diego, does the pack have any certifications? Say Organic certification or others? It is not possible to check if the product has lead by the pic of it thus it would not help.

          • Hey..when I looked at that list of contaminated brands..they all seemed to be “off-brands”..low quality brands. FYI.

          • Hi the website only let me answer here. I have sent you an email to the address you gave me with pictures and more information. Hopefully you can check it out and answer please. Thank you.

            Nate:

            Thank you for you help, where did you find the brands with lead poison? Now I am more inclined to stop consuming it if there are considerable number of brands with lead, hopefully you can answer. Thank you.

  149. I have a 13 year old son that suffers from depression, anxiety and everything that comes with it. He’s been on medication since he was 9 and I can’t bear to have him on them any longer. We want to take a holistic approach. I read that curcumin is a great antidepressant. He weighs 111lbs. What would the dosages be for him?

    Reply

  150. Does anyone have experience using turmeric for endometriosis? My understanding is I’d need to take a curative dose and I’m assuming it’s something I’d want to take all month long. I’ve read it can replace ibuprofen…does that mean when I get cramps, I take turmeric right away or does it mean by taking it all month I won’t need ibuprofen? I know the capsules aren’t ideal, but may have to be used for travel so I’m trying to understand dosages for capsules, root and powder. I use to put fresh turmeric in my smoothie but have no idea how many grams it is. Any specifics would be appreciated!

    Reply

  151. My question is related to typical daily does. What I’m reading here is that 1/2 – 1 teaspoon a day is the norm.

    I’m an athletic person who broke my shoulder 10 weeks ago. Still in PT and regaining strength and range of motion. Just started with a trainer at the gym to help me gain what I’ve lost in general these last 10 weeks while I’ve been on my butt. He “prescribed” a smoothie recipe for general nutrition and muscle rebuilding and included tumeric for its anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s the rub. His recipe says 1 TABLESPOON. I tried it for the first time this morning. Pretty bitter. I can handle some bitter, but this seemed like a lot! One teaspoon sounds much more palatable.

    I’ve tried to get him on the phone, but he’s stacked for the rest of the day. And so, hoping someone will read and weigh in. If it is just a taste issue, I can debate with him. But I’m also wondering if my stomach is now going to bug me later today…..!!

    Reply

  152. I have early onset Parkinson’s. How much turmeric can I take? I’m on 4ng of neupro. Is it OK to take turmeric while on neupro?

    Reply

      • Hi! Am sorry but didnt find the comment button on this page. My concern is for allergies. My doctor has diagnosed me with atopic dermatitis and I have found that taking steroids helps me rid of the itch and the marks as well. But the moment I stop taking steroids, it all comes back. How much turmeric should I take? Also when you say to take a half a teaspoon powder do you mean to take it orally or should I mix it with a cup of water? Looking forward to your reply.

        Reply

  153. How much curcumin, and what kind should i take for a pituitary tumor/or cyst? They arent sure which one it is, but i was told that it could prevent it from growing, or possibly shrink it.

    Reply

      • I have just started to take the golden paste. I have a benign pituitary tumour and hoping it will help. Does anyone take curcumin supplements and turmeric (as paste or otherwise) or would that be too much. I am presuming it is the curcumin that is the ingredient in turmeric that does all the therapeutic work? So if I’m just taking the golden paste, I won’t be getting as much of the curcumin as I would in supplements? Or does it depend on how much of the golden paste I take per day? Could you also just give me a gram weight for 1 tsp of golden paste. I’m in the UK and just wonder if these teaspoon measurements are slightly different. Many thanks

        Reply

        • It is alright to take curcumin supplements and include turmeric in diet..it would not be too much to cause any adverse effect. Doses up to 8g turmeric powder have found to be safe.
          There is more to turmeric than curcumin that gives it medicinal properties so do not discontinue that.
          Dietary turmeric would help but yes you would need large doses. So it is advisable to take curcumin supplements after consulting a doctor. It would be difficult to give the exact gram equivalency but should be around 3-4g.

          Reply

  154. My bilirubin numbers went from .5 last August to 1.1 January, 2016 to 1.6 3 weeks ago.  All my other liver numbers are normal so my Dr. thinks it’s one of the herbs I take and has asked me to stop turmeric for 2 weeks until my next labwork.  I had been putting 2-3 slices of fresh tumeric in my smoothies every morning and using powdered in my evening meals…probably about the same time as my numbers began increasing. Not sure if it’s the turmeric as I also add quite a bit of cinnamon to my smoothies.  If you get bloodwork done on a regular basis you can monitor your liver numbers.

    Reply

    • Hi Jeannette, I see that you mentioned “I also add quite a bit of cinnamon to my smoothies”. Be sure to only use “Organic Ceylon Cinnamon” when putting a teaspoon or more in your smoothies every day. You can google why. Regular cinnamon in larger daily amounts can be very bad. Best of luck, Jason

      Reply

    • Hi, Jeannette! I also think it shouldn’t be turmeric that is causing increase of bilirubin numbers. I have also been drinking it daily (a teaspoonful of dry turmeric powder, mixed with black pepper and a little cinnamon) for more than half a year and my liver enzymes levels came out normal two months ago. My cholesterol and triglycerides levels on the other side were too low, I wonder if that was also the case with you? I found, that large amounts of cassia cinnamon on the other side, could be causing troubles on your liver.

      Reply

    • Jeanette, dietary turmeric or cinnamon shouldn’t cause any adverse effects on liver but if taken in excess anything could be harmful. Are you taking any other medications that could cause drug herb interactions?

      Reply

    • I have just started to use Turmeric and I put about 1 teaspoon in hot water with lemon juice and a little cinnamon. I am using the Spice Islands brand that I bought from Food Lion. It is a division of ACH Food Companies, In. San Francisco. Tell me if this is potent enough or should I try another brand. I made a tea and drank it with food.

      Reply

    • Yes you can sprinkle turmeric on any food item as per your taste. If you plan to make therapeutic use then turmeric powder should be combined with black pepper and/or fats for better absorption.

      Reply

  156. With powder it is easy, you make a mix and then consume it, but
    If I have fresh root, how do I consume it with black pepper and Oil to make it absorb better?
    I can’t really mix it with a fresh root stick, can’t i….

    Reply

    • I am mixing it with natural peanut butter. My favorite is the Teddie super chunky old fashioned all natural. The peanut oil floats to the top, so you have to mix it in first. I use about 3 tablespoons. Then add several good shakes of course ground black pepper and a teaspoon of regular powdered turmeric. Mix well. It takes a minute or so, but eventually the peanut butter absorbs all of the powder nicely. In fact, it makes it less oily. Then I just eat it with a spoon and it is delicious! I have it with a cup of coffee every morning.

      Reply

      • Thanks for this suggestion, Linda. I have mixed it with whole milk yogurt and pepper, but your recipe sounds more delicious.

        Reply

    • Joel, this is an interesting question. Turmeric fresh roots contain natural volatile oils which enhance the absorption of curcumin in the first place. Another trick that I practice is after peeling and slicing turmeric root I apply black pepper powder to it and leave it for 15 min. Then I enjoy this as a part of salad or as it is with meals.
      However if you are taking it as a preventive measure for therapeutic purpose please take Golden Paste.

      Reply

  157. I don’t see turmeric Essential Oils mentioned anywhere. Any idea if it makes a difference what form you use?
    I take a supplement currently but saw some turmeric Essential Oil in a store recently and wondered if that would be better.
    Any thoughts?

    Reply

    • Make sure any essential oils are food grade. Even a food based oil can be unsafe. Don’t assume. Just like everything else it depends on who’s making it and the intended use. However, I believe you would be more satisfied with a tumeric tincture it’s a liquid and more pure.

      Reply

  159. I took two tablespoons a day of Turmeric powder and got a serious ulcer. My tongue taste buds do not work well on this spice so I could easily consume this amount at one time. My poor stomach paid the price.

    Reply

    • You should not eat it lile any other spice straight and raw, one of the best consumption is with dairy or simmering it with 2-2.5 cups of water and drinking it in three different dosages through out the day. This is knly one tb spoon in water.
      Any spice tajen directly will cause some or the other harm. Our bile can handle it cauz of the acids and enzymes but not our tongue, atleast not raw.

      Reply

          • I’ve never been able to sort out the capsule or no capsule debate (though most haven’t heard it). I’m going to go back to my herbology and alternative medicine books and double check.

            Though I seem to remember that something about the capsule hindering the effects of whatever is in it. I seem to recall that pharmaceutical companies alter the drug to make up for it.

            I don’t find tumeric to have an adverse taste. I actually may take too much (I don’t measure) as I put it on food, in teabags coffee, and the occasional soda. Not to mention I sprinkle it on almost everything I eat. BUT, I don’t do it every day or everytime I eat or drink anything. it’s a matter of just thinking about it

            If for you it’s about the taste buy some tumeric tincture instead, I find that most tinctures I’ve used have less of the flavor, though to be honest I have only used a few as I prefer to actually getting everything I need via food (pure herbs and spices included).

    • John, did you take turmeric for any particular health condition? Were you taking any other medications? It is always advised to start with small doses of turmeric and then raise the dose based on how it suits you. You can take turmeric as Golden Paste and if the you don’t like the taste here are a few ways to make it more palatable:
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/general-info/10-easy-and-awesome-ways-to-use-turmeric-or-golden-paste
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste

      Reply

  160. I’m finding that since I entered my 60’s that I am having some joint pain, especially in my hips and knees. So I’m very interested in taking turmeric. I started this morning with 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/4 tsp black pepper mixed with 1 tsp olive oil. I’m wondering how long it takes to start seeing the benefits of turmeric? I know I’m only on the first day but can you give me an idea when I will notice a change? Thanks! Al

    Reply

  161. You mention dosages, but i have not seen any kind of a dose when taking the golden paste. The recipe of 1/2 c of tumeric powder + 1 c water, + 1/4 coconut oil and ground pepper. What is max dosage for humans on maintenance level?

    Reply

    • I make up this paste also and add to it 2 tsp of cinnamon, I take about 2 tsp a day in total, but divide it up over the day till about 3.00 in the afternoon, it works well for my painful hip, I take this 3 to 4 times a week……wonderful.

      Reply

    • Yes you could start with 1/2 – 1 teaspoon daily. The dose can be increased to 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily as to how it suits you. People do take as much as 4 teaspoons or even tabespoon in a day but it depends on your tolerance and requirement.

      Reply

  162. Where do I go to find out if and how I can take tumeric. I am on many medications and honestly afraid of stopping them. (Plavis, baby aspirin, Lipitor, Wellbutrin, norvasc and avilide)
    Want desperately to stop them but don’t know how.

    Reply

    • Work with a naturopath to wean you off of meds. It can be as an intense experience as coming off of street drugs and it is best to have the guidance and support of another when doing that. Best wishes to you!

      Reply

    • I am a pharmacist well versed in many medicinal herbs. From the FDA’s point of view turmeric is considered a dietary supplement. As a dietary supplement, turmeric is not required to undergo any kind of testing for safety and effectiveness and companies that sell medicinal herbs typically do not perform clinical studies to determine what drugs should not be taken with the herb or whether there are any interactions at all. So basically if you take turmeric along with your other medications you are doing so at your own risk (i.e., you become the guinea pig). If I were you I would not stop taking the medications you are on just to see if turmeric alone will suffice – you do not have enough evidence to support making such a drastic decision. It is obvious that taking small amounts of turmeric should be safe since it has been used as a spice for thousands of years, but I’ll bet you the amount you need to take to treat illness needs to be more than the amount used as a spice and this is where you may run into problems. How much is too much? At higher amounts will the turmeric interact with the drugs you are on in ways that are not safe for you? Even with conventional drugs it is not always easy to predict these things since different people often react differently to a drug. A lot depends on your individual metabolism and your particular combination of illnesses.

      The bottom line: in the absence of legitimate clinical studies there is no way to know how much turmeric you need to take to help your conditions and how much will be safe to take along with your other medications. So proceed with caution because, again, you will be the guinea pig.

      Reply

      • Victoria, I hate to say it, but I would not trust the word of a mainstream doctor. Especially if one is going to ask him if they can get off the drugs he prescribed. Doctors now, are paid big bucks to prescribe the drugs that the pharmaceutical companies tell them to. Doctors prescribe them to patients even when they don’t agree with it. The money is too good to ignore.

        Reply

        • I am a nurse practitioner and prescribed many drugs throughout the day. Despite the prescriptions I write I have never ever seen a single penny from any pharmaceutical company. Nor have I even been offered one. I have been in health care for 30 years and can absolutely say that I have never heard of any prescriber being paid a dime by a pharmaceutical company to prescribe a drug. I know that kind of rhetoric is exciting and people like to jump on the conspiracy theory train. But I’m telling you it is folklore, urban legend and nothing more.

          Reply

          • I was a medical representative for more than a dacade. On my company’s (4 reputed phamaceuticals) I have gone around enticing the doctors to prescribe chosen products and the doctors shamelessly asked for goodies in return. I had presented them with expensive gifts and even hard cash. The market is teeming with vermins of pharmas and there agents leeching the hapless sick population of there hardearned money, health and life.
            And by the way who is interested in a nurse and whoever gave you the right to prescribe drugs. Thru out the day!!!
            I undrestand your ” I have never heard of any prescriber being paid a dime by a pharmaceutical ……..folk lore etc.” betrays your pain of not being able to enjoy the goodies the doctors get to enjoy, yes shamelessly.

    • Kathee, you can start with small doses of dietary turmeric. It is unlikely to cause any drug interactions. Curcumin has blood thinning properties and it is advised not to take it with other blood thinners. However dietary turmeric isnt going to cause such a problem since it would have fairly low curcumin to cause blood thinning effect.
      You can take the Golden Paste starting with 1/2 teaspoon and then gradually increase your dose to 1-2 teaspoons 1-2 times a day. Avoid taking it anywhere close to taking your medicines. You could include it in your meal or coffee or milk.
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste

      Reply

  163. Reading about the benefits of turmeric powder got me very excited as I have 2 members in my family with diabetes but both are on aspirin 75 mg daily. Is it safe for them to take 3 GM’s of turmeric powder daily?

    Reply

  164. Hi, my dad suffers from RA rheumatoid arthritis, he has began drinking ginger with tumeric every morning, any other recommendations that I can add to help him with his pain ?

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    • I am a woman almost 60 yrs. old who has suffered from RA since 31 yrs. of age. I was taking 2 x-strength ibuprofen daily for over 20 yrs. until recently, when a doctor told me I should stop. I didn’t know it, but long term use of ibuprofen, can cause severe insomnia (which I had), as well as a host of other problems, and since quitting taking it about 4 weeks ago, I’ve been sleeping like a baby! 🙂 But of course, my pain has got a lot worse, so I started making myself a special smoothie every day for lunch, which helps a ‘lot’! I put one banana, about 3/4 c. f.f. plain yogurt, 1/2 c. frozen cranberries and about 1 c. of frozen mixed fruit, (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries) together with 1/2 – 1 tsp. of powdered turmeric, 1 tsp. of fresh chopped ginger, 1 tsp. of cinnamon, and mix it all up in my blender and voila! Delicious, and after drinking it every day since stopping the ibuprofen, my pain is minimal. I know it’s the smoothies too that help, because if I don’t make myself one for 1 or 2 days, I can really feel it!

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      • June, I’m 66 years young and just discovered RA in the 1st joint of my index finger (trigger finger). I have been talking Tumeric for several months. Will my finger ever be mobile again?

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    • Drinking ginger and turmeric is an excellent option since they both have synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. You could also give him the Golden Paste. Start with 1/2 teaspoon a day and increase the dose gradually to 1-2 teaspoons 2-3 times a day or how it suits him.Give it with meals and not empty stomach.
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-recipes/how-to-make-turmeric-paste-or-golden-paste
      https://www.turmericforhealth.com/turmeric-benefits/turmeric-benefits-for-rheumatoid-arthritis

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  165. Last year, I had severe pain in a shoulder joint that limited my range of motion and kept me from sleeping through the night. This went on for months. After researching the benefits of turmeric, I purchased turmeric powder from an Indian store and added approximately 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of turmeric, along with black pepper and a bit of coconut oil, to my food daily. After several days, I noticed that the pain was lessening. Now? Still no pain. Amazing. Turmeric remains part of my daily diet. Forever.

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  166. Thank you so much for posting this information. I was confused about how much to take daily. I am now starting with 1/2 teaspoon and working up so that it doesn’t cause a problem with my stomach. I also mix it with a few other spices including black pepper, coconut oil and gogi berries to help with absorption. It is really tasty.

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  167. Hi I am 18 years old and over weight with acne on my shoulders, chest, back of legs, and back, I have looked up tumeric and how it can help but I am not sure how to use it, how much and how offen, my boyfriends 21st is in 8 months and I need to find a way to be slimmer and less acne, can anyone help me?

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    • Hello Alisha, If you take a look at Meghan Telpner’s website it may be of help to you. I only found it yesterday. She gives a lovely recipe for turmeric tonic. I have started to take it yesterday, but am working up to the amount of turmeric because of my stomach. I haven’t looked too far into her website, but I think she also has recipes for healthy eating etc.Good luck for your boyfriends 21st, I’m sure you will be gorgeous.

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