Jamaican Cookery And News

Turmeric has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Studies show that turmeric may help fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems.

Turmeric is widely used in cooking and gives Indian curry its flavour and yellow colour. It is also used in mustard and to colour butter and cheese.

Curcumin is also a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants scavenge molecules in the body known as free radicals, which damage cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Antioxidants can fight free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. In addition, curcumin lowers the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation. It also stops platelets from clumping together to form blood clots.

Turmeric curcumin side effects

Turmeric in food is considered safe.

Turmeric and curcumin supplements are considered safe when taken at the recommended doses. However, taking large amounts of turmeric for long periods of time may cause stomach upset and, in extreme cases, ulcers.

People who have gallstones or obstruction of the bile passages should talk to their doctor before taking turmeric.

f you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before taking turmeric supplements. Turmeric may lower blood sugar levels. When combined with medications for diabetes, turmeric could cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

Although it is safe to eat foods with turmeric, pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take turmeric supplements.

Because turmeric may act like a blood thinner, you should stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery. Tell your doctor and surgeon that you have been taking turmeric.

Available Forms

Turmeric is available in the following forms:

• Capsules containing powder
• Fluid extract
• Tincture

Bromelain increases the absorption and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin, so it is often combined with turmeric products.

The following doses are recommended for adults:

DO NOT GIVE TURMERIC TO CHILDREN!

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