How Should I Take Curcumin & Turmeric Supplements?

Curcumin, a phytochemical, is the active compound in Turmeric, a root used around the globe as a spice. Turmeric is often found in curry and is also used in vegetarian cooking to add color --- for example, in scrambled tofu to more closely resemble scrambled eggs. Curcumin is the substance that gives turmeric its yellow color. Supplements for health are focused on the properties of curcumin and have been used for centuries to promote immune system health; some claim it has cancer-fighting abilities.

Instructions

• 1

  Select and purchase the desired curcumin-turmeric supplement. Though research has been conducted into the health benefits and safe dosage levels of turmeric, each product is different --- and some may find taking large doses difficult. The average capsule size is 500 mg turmeric and curcumin, usually containing curcumin extract and a measurement of turmeric in spice form.

• 2

  Take 1 or 2 capsules of the curcumin-turmeric supplement once a day, preferably in the morning, several days a week. Some people take supplements daily; others choose to take them every other day. Choose according to personal preference or the suggestion of your health-care professional.

• 3

  Do not exceed 8000 mg in a single day, as this was found to produce toxicity in patients with high-risk conditions such as urinary-tract cancer, intestinal metaplasia and Bowen's disease, among others. Up to 8000 mg, however, showed no toxicity.