Turmeric is generally used as a spice and has also been relied upon in Asian traditional medicine to treat various physical health maladies. Gastrointestinal issues, blood clots, high cholesterol, low energy, eye problems, viral infections, scabies and arthritis-related pain are some of the health issues that turmeric has been used to try to correct. According to Medline Plus, Turmeric has scientifically been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant characteristics. However, there are instances of side effects that have been reported in connection with turmeric that should be heeded.
High doses of turmeric have reportedly caused stomach upset, usually if taken over an excessive period of time. Those who have used it to help cure stomach ulcers have had heartburn, diarrhea and nausea on occasion. Alternatively, when turmeric is taken with drugs such as indomethacin or reserpine, it can actually cause ulcers. Turmeric can also cause gallbladder contraction and is not recommended for people with gallstones.
Lowered blood pressure and additive effects for diabetes medications have been reported with the use of turmeric. Anyone using turmeric with diabetes or hypoglycemia or who are taking drugs or supplements that lower blood sugar should take caution and seek medical advice before using it.
While turmeric as a spice is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it has reportedly stimulated menstrual flow and caused uterine spasms.
Turmeric could lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol) and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol. As a result, it may increase cholesterol-lowering drug effects such as that of lovastatin (Mevacor) or atorvastatin (Lipitor). Therefore, cholesterol levels should be monitored regularly if turmeric is used.
Herbs and supplements that increase the risk of bleeding like ginkgo biloba, garlic and saw palmetto can be exacerbated by turmeric. Patients who are taking drugs or have bleeding disorders may need dosing adjustments. Because of this, turmeric should not be taken prior to surgery.
People using medications need to be aware that turmeric could interfere with how the body processes some drugs. Certain drug levels may increase in the blood, which can cause serious adverse reactions in the liver. Therefore, a doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional should be consulted as to the possibility of adverse drug interactions when turmeric is used along with medicine.