But that’s not all. Turmeric is also available in capsule, gummy and liquid form – so you can find the ideal format and flavour to suit your tastes. The company writes that this formula is free of milk, eggs, fish, wheat, and soy. It is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Brown explains that the active ingredient in turmeric is a natural compound (polyphenol) called curcumin, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also increase sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) levels. Sulfasalazine is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), which may be prescribed to treat ulcerative colitis or rheumatoid arthritis ( 37).

Peng Y., et al. (2021). Anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin in the inflammatory diseases: Status, limitations and countermeasures.You can buy turmeric powder, tea, essential oil and scrubs. You can also take turmeric tablets, too. As well as having soothing properties, turmeric is also said to have antioxidant properties, making it effective for skin types and conditions, such as blemish prone skin and psoriasis. 14 The ingredients in golden milk, particularly ginger and cinnamon, may help lower blood sugar levels.

Curcumin may also be able to help support gut health, including managing excess gas, abdominal discomfort, and bloating. 12 A 2013 trial by the University of Nottingham found curcumin stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, an essential substance needed to break down fat in foods. 13 Improved antioxidant status. Curcumin and other curcuminoids are powerful antioxidants that may improve your antioxidant status. Antioxidants protect against cellular damage from free radicals that is associated with health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer ( 5, 6).

The verdict: Turmeric supplements

While turmeric is safe for most people when enjoyed in tea or food, if you are allergic to the spice, eating it may cause a rash, hives or abdominal pain. What’s more, study results are conflicting, and it’s unclear how much of each ingredient needs to be consumed to possibly achieve these benefits ( 46, 47, 48, 49). Studies even suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin are comparable to those of some pharmaceutical drugs with none of the side effects ( 9, 10). Most of the side effects are associated with very high concentrations of curcumin found in supplements (pills, capsules and gummies). How to Enjoy Turmeric