In brief
The main active compound in turmeric, which gives the spice its yellow colour. As a supplement, it is promoted for several conditions, including osteoarthritis.
- If you notice symptoms such as dark urine or yellow skin or eyes, stop taking turmeric or curcumin products immediately.
- We do not know enough to say whether turmeric or curcumin is beneficial for any health purpose, NCCIH says.
How it works
For osteoarthritis, the initial evidence is positive, but higher-quality evidence is needed to reach definite conclusions, according to the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Overall, not enough is known to say whether turmeric or curcumin is beneficial for any health purpose.
Standard turmeric or curcumin taken by mouth, not modified to boost absorption, is likely safe in recommended amounts for up to 2 or 3 months. Highly absorbable curcumin products may harm the liver, and liver damage has been reported in some people who took them. Turmeric supplements may be unsafe in pregnancy.
Connections
2 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
Turmeric and curcumin affects
- Liver Supported
Liver damage has been reported in some people who took highly bioavailable curcumin products.
Source: NIH NCCIH, Turmeric
Turmeric and curcumin has been studied for
- Osteoarthritis Emerging
For osteoarthritis, the initial evidence on turmeric or curcumin is positive, but higher-quality evidence is needed.
Source: NIH NCCIH, Turmeric
Medicines and supplements
General education only. Never start, stop or change a medicine without your prescriber.
Sources
Each connection above names its own source. See every source AskBioMap uses.
Summarised from the NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Sources read on 13 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.