How Should I Take Curcumin & Turmeric Supplements?

Turmeric is the spice that gives curry dishes their color and flavor, and curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. In addition to its use as a food seasoning, it has many purported medicinal uses, including treating indigestion, ulcerative colitis, osteoarthritis and diabetes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Because of these purported health benefits, supplements containing turmeric and its active ingredient are commonly available for purchase. However, you should never use turmeric and curcumin to improve your health without first consulting with a trusted medical professional.

A supplement bottle of turmeric tablets. (Image: Torjrtrx/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Schedule an appointment with your medical professional to discuss using turmeric and curcumin supplements to improve your health.

Step 2

Research the effects of turmeric and curcumin to understand its potential benefits.

Step 3

Visit with your medical professional to ask any questions you have about turmeric and curcumin and the effects it will have in your body.

Step 4

Purchase the supplement from a reputable supplements seller. Many health food and nutrition stores sell turmeric and curcumin, and you can also order them from an online supplement retailer.

Step 5

Take the supplement as directed by your health practitioner and in accordance with the label directions. The recommended dose depends on the form of the supplement you are using. For example, the dose for standardized extract is 400 milligrams to 600 milligrams three times daily, whereas the dose for a tincture is 15 to 30 drops four times daily, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Step 6

Continue taking the supplement as directed and monitor yourself for side effects. Turmeric is generally safe when taken as directed, but possible side effects include diarrhea and nausea, MedlinePlus reports.

Step 7

Visit with a medical professional if you have concerns about how turmeric or curcumin is affecting you or your health.

Warning

While generally regarded as safe, turmeric and curcumin should not be used by some individuals. Do not take the supplement if you are pregnant or have gallstones or blocked bile ducts, for example, the University of Michigan Health System warns.