Turmeric Side Effects: 6 Side Effects of Too Much Turmeric and What is the Right Amount to Consume |

Turmeric has been part of traditional medicine and culinary practices for centuries. This bright yellow spice, especially in Ayurveda, turmeric owes its fame to the active ingredient curcumin, which is responsible for its distinctive color and numerous health benefits. It is characterized by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore an essential component of many health-conscious diets.
Is turmeric harmful?
Although turmeric has numerous health benefits, excessive consumption can lead to possible side effects. Here are six side effects caused by excessive consumption of turmeric:
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Digestive problems
Turmeric is known to increase bile production and can increase stomach acid levels. According to Ayurveda, too much turmeric can overstimulate digestive fire, especially in people who already have strong agni (fire). For most people, this can aid digestion, especially when it comes to breaking down fats. However, this increase in stomach acid can cause irritation in the digestive system in some people, particularly those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux, or other gastrointestinal disorders.

Kidney stones
Turmeric contains oxalates, which are naturally occurring substances found in various plant foods. According to traditional Indian medicine, when consumed in excess, oxalates can combine with calcium in the body and form calcium oxalate crystals, the most common type of kidney stones.

Blood thinning effect
Traditional Indian practices indicate that turmeric may have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects. This can be risky for people taking anticoagulant medications or having surgery.
Iron deficiency
Turmeric, particularly its active ingredient curcumin, may inhibit iron absorption in the body. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that while turmeric has many health benefits, its high doses could have a negative impact on iron absorption. This effect could lead to iron deficiency anemia in some people, especially when consumed in large quantities or over a long period of time.

Lower blood pressure
The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, can lower blood pressure. In people who are prone to low blood pressure or are taking medication for high blood pressure, this can lead to low blood pressure.
Headache and dizziness
Some people experience side effects such as headaches and dizziness when they consume higher doses of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. According to traditional Indian medicine, curcumin has a wide range of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and its excessive consumption, especially in dietary supplements.
What is a normal dose?
It is advisable to include turmeric in your daily diet. According to John Hopkins Medicine, curcumin’s effectiveness is significantly enhanced when taken with piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper. A typical recommended dose of curcuminoids is between 500 and 2,000 milligrams of turmeric per day.