How Much Turmeric to Use

Turmeric has superfood status thanks to the anti-inflammatory action in one of its chief compounds, called curcumin. Research also indicates this compound may be effective against cancer cells, fight bacteria, rid you of indigestion and provide benefits when it comes to treating Alzheimer's disease and inhibiting HIV, according to "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide," by George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox. Just how much turmeric you should consume depends on which form you take and why you are taking it. Consult a doctor before using a spice medicinally.

Cut and Dried Root Dose

Turmeric is approved by Germany's Commission E, that country's regulatory body for herbs, to treat dyspeptic complaints like bloating and heartburn. The agency also approves turmeric to treat appetite loss. A typical dose of turmeric for these purposes is 1.5 to 3 g per day of the cut root or dried and powdered root, taken in three divided doses, according to Grossberg and Fox.

Other Forms

Turmeric comes in many other forms. These include a standardized powder, tincture and fluid extract. The typical dose for the standardized powder is 400 to 600 mg three times a day. Standard dose for the tincture is 15 to 30 drops four times daily. The standard dose for a fluid extract is 30 to 90 drops per day.

In Food

If you are simply using turmeric as a spice in your food rather than taking a turmeric supplement, "The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies," by Mark Stengler recommends using 1 to 2 tsp. daily, sprinkled on food or incorporated in recipes throughout the day. You can add turmeric to sautéed vegetables, egg salad, broth or soup, creamy veggie dips and meat. Don't rely on curry powder for your turmeric, Stengler cautions, because curry sold in the United States often is short on this spice.

Considerations

Few clinical trials on turmeric had been conducted as of 2011, so therapeutic doses for treating specific conditions have not been established, notes the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. Also, there's still little reliable evidence to support using turmeric for treating any health condition. Limited scientific evidence suggests turmeric may be beneficial for treating ulcerative colitis, osteoarthritis, diabetes, bacterial and viral infections and atherosclerosis, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. More research is needed before scientists can draw any conclusions about turmeric's possible benefits for treating these health conditions. Also, while animal and test-tube studies on turmeric's anticancer potential seem promising, this may or may not translate to benefits for humans, notes UMMC.