Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial shrub that belongs in the same family as ginger (Zingiberaceae). Native to Asia, it is commonly available in the form of a deep orange-yellow powder that has a warm, bitter taste. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) notes that its use dates back to the ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine for therapeutic purposes that remain in use today. While this herb is considered safe for most adults, a number of dangerous side effects may result from taking turmeric.
Bleeding
A number of animal studies and lab tests indicate that taking turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding, notes the National Institutes of Health at MedlinePlus. This poses a dangerous risk to people who suffer from bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease (VWD). A patient who is scheduled for a surgical procedure should avoid turmeric because they run the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.
Allergic Reaction
Some people may experience an allergic reaction to curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. People who are allergic to other plants in the Curcuma genus are especially susceptible to being allergic to this herb. A common symptom of an allergic reaction is contact dermatitis, an itchy rash that breaks out when the herb comes into contact with the skin or scalp.
Drug Interactions
Turmeric, when taken in its medicinal from, may interact with some medications and inhibit their therapeutic action. It may interfere with the antiplatelet and anticoagulant action of blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin, aspirin and clopidogrel. It may also increase the effect of diabetes drugs that lower blood sugar levels, thereby increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if blood sugar levels fall to dangerously low levels.
Stomach Upset
When turmeric is taken in amounts that exceed the recommended dosage, it may cause stomach upset. In extreme cases, it may even cause ulcers to develop. The recommended daily dosage for adults is up to 3g of cut root or dried, powdered turmeric. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, ingesting 20g to 40g of the active compound curcumin has reportedly increased gallbladder contractions in healthy people.
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