Turmeric supplements aren’t risk-free.
Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, M.Sc.FN, RD, CPT
Key Points
- Turmeric and curcumin supplements may increase the risk of liver injury in some people.
- Talk with your health care provider before starting a new supplement.
- Enjoy turmeric in dishes like curry, eggs, soups and lattes.
Supplement use has become increasingly common in recent years, with around 60% or more of U.S. adults taking them.
While you may take supplements without much thought, not all of them are equally safe—especially when it comes to your liver health. In some cases, supplements can cause liver injury, making it important to ensure you’re only taking supplements that are safe and used as directed.
We asked toxicology experts which supplements can contribute to liver issues, and they pointed to turmeric—specifically, its primary active compound, curcumin. Here’s what you need to know before taking turmeric or curcumin supplements.
Why Turmeric Supplements May Harm Your Liver
Turmeric is a popular spice known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, it’s also become a widely used dietary supplement. While many people take turmeric supplements without issue, there have been reported cases of liver injury.
“While the exact mechanisms aren’t fully understood, supplements containing turmeric or curcumin are well-documented to cause damage to the liver,” says Ryan Marino, M.D. “This can range from inflammation and lab or imaging study abnormalities to complete liver failure. Even cases resulting in death have been documented.”
Liver injuries associated with turmeric supplements tend to occur unpredictably in people who are susceptible due to a complex interaction of immune, genetic and environmental factors, says Tetyana Cheairs, M.D., M.S.P.H.
In addition to taking too high of a dose, “another factor that may contribute to liver toxicity is the inclusion of additives, such as piperine, an extract derived from black pepper, which is frequently added to turmeric supplements to increase the absorption and bioavailability of curcumin,” Cheairs explains. “Enhanced absorption may increase the amount of curcumin reaching the liver, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.”
Tips for Supplement Safety
It’s important to understand that while dietary supplements are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, they are not subject to the same level of regulatory oversight as prescription medications.
“Consumers should also be aware that available supplements vary considerably in curcumin content, formulation, purity and presence of absorption-enhancing ingredients,” Cheairs says.
“Because supplements are not well-regulated for purity or safety, any supplement could potentially contain toxic doses, could even contain no turmeric or curcumin, or may contain other contaminants like heavy metals or even infectious pathogens,” adds Marino. “If you are going to use a supplement, make sure that it is verified for purity and safety by an independent organization and not just a product from a popular influencer.”
Marino continues, “There is a lot of misinformation out there from people who stand to profit off these products, particularly online and in so-called wellness spaces, and those people will not be there to see or deal with any potential consequences.”
Generally, the safest way to consume turmeric is in food and beverages, Marino says. Instead of a supplement, try adding turmeric to recipes like curries, lattes and egg dishes, or enjoy it in a turmeric shot.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
Regardless of the supplement you’re taking, it’s important to follow the directions on the label and pay attention to any adverse effects. Better yet, speak with your health care provider before starting any new supplement.
“Talk to your health care provider about your concerns before starting any supplements, and always disclose if you are taking any supplements,” says Marino.
If you notice any changes to your health, “individuals should discontinue supplement use and seek prompt medical evaluation if they develop signs of an adverse reaction,” advises Cheairs.
Some signs of drug-induced liver injury—which can be caused from medications or supplements—include fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, itching and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
“These symptoms may not appear immediately and often develop only after a latency period of several weeks to several months following the initiation of supplement use,” Cheairs says. Therefore, it’s important to watch for symptoms both shortly after starting a supplement and throughout the time you’re taking it.
Our Expert Take
Turmeric and curcumin supplements are generally safe for most people, but in some cases, they can negatively affect liver health. In particular, high doses of curcumin and turmeric supplements containing piperine have been linked to liver injury. Signs of possible liver damage include dark urine, nausea, fatigue, stomach pain, itching and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
It’s always best to consult your health care provider before taking a new supplement and to seek medical guidance if you experience symptoms that could indicate liver injury.