turmeric

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects of curcumin have been demonstrated. Additionally, it can help strengthen the immune system, enhance cognitive function, and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Supplemental turmeric can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, including joint discomfort, digestive difficulties, skin diseases, and liver abnormalities. To support general well-being, it can also be taken as a general health supplement.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Gastrointestinal disturbances (chronic use) 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• turmeric may shrink the gallbladder, which might be dangerous for those with gallbladder disease. 
• turmeric has blood-thinning properties and may interact with drugs like warfarin. Before using turmeric supplements, those who use blood thinners or have bleeding issues should speak with their doctor. 
• Surgery-related bleeding may become more likely if turmeric is used. It is advised to cease using turmeric pills at least two weeks before surgery. 
• Although turmeric is widely regarded as safe in dietary levels during pregnancy and lactation, there is insufficient data to confirm its safety in greater supplement dosages. Therefore, it is advised against using turmeric supplements when breastfeeding or pregnant. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology 

turmeric, sometimes referred to as Curcuma longa, is an herbal supplement made from the turmeric plant’s roots. turmeric’s pharmacological actions are brought on by curcumin, which is the compound’s active component. 

Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects of curcumin have been demonstrated. It functions by obstructing numerous enzymes and signalling pathways connected to oxidative damage and inflammation. 

Pharmacodynamics 

The active enzymes and signalling pathways involved in inflammation are inhibited by curcumin, which has been demonstrated to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-6 production can all be decreased with its assistance. 

Additionally, a potent antioxidant, curcumin can help shield cells from the oxidative harm brought on by free radicals. It can eliminate free radicals and lessen lipid peroxidation, two processes that can hasten the onset of chronic illnesses including cancer and heart disease. 

It has been demonstrated that curcumin has anti-cancer properties by preventing the development and division of cancer cells. It can cause cancer cells to undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death) and lower the expression of genes linked to tumour invasion and proliferation. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

The active component of turmeric, curcumin, has a limited bioavailability, which makes it challenging for the body to absorb and utilize it. However, piperine, a substance included in black pepper that might improve curcumin absorption, is frequently used in the formulation of turmeric supplements. 

Distribution 

The liver, kidneys, lungs and brain have all been proven to accumulate with curcumin, which is present throughout the body. 

Metabolism 

The liver’s UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) and cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) metabolise curcumin. It passes through a thorough metabolic process and is changed into different metabolites that the body excretes. 

Elimination and excretion 

The primary ways that curcumin and its metabolites leave the body are through feces and urine. curcumin has an extremely brief elimination half-life, varying from 1 to 3 hours. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Herbal supplements containing turmeric are often sold as capsules or tablets, although they can also come in liquid extract, powder, or tea form. Depending on the supplement and its intended application, different dosages of turmeric may be advised. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: turmeric 

Why do we use turmeric? 

The natural supplement turmeric, which includes the active component curcumin, has long been utilized in Ayurvedic and conventional medicine for several therapeutic benefits.  

The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation brought on by diseases including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. 

Strong antioxidant curcumin can help shield cells from oxidative damage brought on by free radicals. Conditions including heart disease, cancer, and neurological illnesses may be prevented or treated with its aid. 

An herbal supplement containing turmeric may aid in enhancing digestive health and reducing symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases such indigestion, gas, and bloating. 

By boosting the activity of certain immune cells such T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells, curcumin can alter the immune system.