If you are due to have an operation, avoid turmeric for one to two weeks before surgery. This could lead to a decrease in the body’s ability to absorb iron from food, which could lead to iron deficiency. Studies have shown that some compounds in turmeric bind to iron. If men take large amounts of turmeric supplements, it could have an effect on their testosterone levels and decrease sperm movement, which could lead to infertility. If you are allergic to yellow food coloring, you may also be allergic to turmeric.
As turmeric is part of the same family as ginger, you are more likely to have a reaction if you’re allergic to ginger.
May Cause Allergic ReactionsĬurcumin can cause contact allergy, and some people have reported contact dermatitis and urticaria (hives) due to skin contact with turmeric. The curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce blood platelet function, and should be avoided by those taking blood thinning medication such as Warfarin or Coumadin. Nausea and diarrhea are two symptoms associated with turmeric supplements, and this is because the curcumin in turmeric can cause irritation in the gastrointestinal tract.Įven low doses can cause nausea in some people, so if you notice any symptoms after taking turmeric, stop using it. There is not much research available at the moment on the possible effects of turmeric on pregnant and breastfeeding women, and it’s not known if the active compounds will pass through breast milk. Turmeric is safe for pregnant women to eat as a spice in food, but turmeric supplements should be avoided during pregnancy. In one study, consuming turmeric led to a higher urinary oxalate excretion compared to cinnamon, so it’s wise to avoid turmeric if you have kidney problems. These oxalates can bind to calcium to form calcium oxalate, which is insoluble, and mainly responsible for kidney stones. As with gallstones, too much turmeric can increase the risk of developing kidney stones because of the oxalates in it.