Herb library · Herb · Curcuma longa
Turmeric
A ginger-family rhizome used as a spice and sold as turmeric or curcumin supplements. NCCIH does not yet know enough to conclude it is beneficial for any purpose, and better-absorbed formulations have been linked to liver damage.
Traditional use
Used in Chinese, Indian (including Ayurvedic), Islamic, and Thai traditional medicine for indigestion, colds, skin infections, arthritis, abdominal pain, and liver complaints, and in some Indian religious ceremonies. Today it is promoted for osteoarthritis, depression, allergies, itching, and high cholesterol.
What studies show
- Limited
Knee osteoarthritis: pooled reviews of oral turmeric or curcumin studies have looked at pain, stiffness, and function; NCCIH calls the initial evidence positive but says higher-quality evidence is needed, and products vary widely in curcumin content. Whether a topical ointment helps is unclear.
- Limited
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: initial research suggests oral turmeric or curcumin might improve some measures, but which measures are consistently improved is unclear.
- Limited
Mouth soreness from cancer therapy: initial research suggests turmeric or curcumin, swallowed or as a mouthwash, might ease oral mucositis.
- Insufficient
Everything else: NCCIH says there is not enough evidence to conclude whether turmeric or curcumin helps with any other condition.
Be careful of
Cautions
- AmountConventional (not absorption-enhanced) oral turmeric or curcumin is likely safe in recommended amounts for up to 2 or 3 months. It can cause nausea, vomiting, reflux, stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation; on the skin, hives or itching.
- ConditionLiver damage has been reported with curcumin products of increased bioavailability. If you notice fatigue, nausea, poor appetite, dark urine, or jaundice, stop the product at once and talk with your health care provider.
- PregnancyTurmeric supplements during pregnancy may be unsafe. Little is known about amounts above those in food while breastfeeding.
- InteractionNCCIH names no specific interactions but advises checking with a health care provider before combining any herb with medicines.
- Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.
From the old books
What herbals and dispensaries of the past printed. History, in their words.
“Turmeric paste with the addition of a little lime is a popular application to sprains and bruises. A decoction of turmeric is used as a cooling wash in ophthalmia ; cloth steeped in it is employed as an eye-shade.”
Sources
- Turmeric: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 15, 2026
Reviewed September 15, 2026.