Is turmeric safe for use as a supplement?
Turmeric is an herbal supplement and spice that is often taken in pill form due to its purported anti-inflammatory properties. According to a recent case report, turmeric, especially when compounded with piperine to enhance bioavailability, can cause hepatotoxicity. The use of turmeric by a 55-year-old female resulted in progressive jaundice, elevated bilirubin, and elevated liver enzymes. The patient was treated with acetylcysteine, and her liver enzymes eventually decreased. The authors recommend using extreme caution when using turmeric, especially considering its questionable therapeutic benefit.
Ajitkumar A, Mohan G, Ghose M, Yarrarapu S, Afiniwala S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Secondary to Turmeric Use. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med. 2023 Apr 21;10(5):003845. doi: 10.12890/2023_003845. PMID: 37205206; PMCID: PMC10187097.
Contributed by: Alexandra Fountaine