Turmeric is used both as a spice and as an herbal medicine. It is also sometimes used to add yellow color to foods. Although it may be beneficial for indigestion, not everyone should consume turmeric in amounts greater than that found in foods. Check with your doctor before taking turmeric supplements to make sure they would be safe for you.
Gallstones
Gallstones occur when bile hardens into stones in the gallbladder. This is due to an imbalance of the components of bile, including cholesterol, bile salts and bilirubin. They can also occur when the gallbladder does not properly empty for some reason. Symptoms of gallstones include pain between the shoulder blades, pain in the upper right abdomen and pain under the right shoulder.
Turmeric and Gallstones
Some medications and herbs can exacerbate problems with gallstones. Turmeric may make gallbladder problems, including gallstones, worse, according to MedlinePlus, so you should speak with your doctor before taking these supplements if you have a bile duct obstruction or suffer from gallstones. However, the small amounts of turmeric found in foods are likely to be safe.
Side Effects and Safety
Consuming turmeric in large amounts, such as those found in supplements, can cause side effects that include diarrhea, nausea, upset stomach and ulcers. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, have a bleeding disorder, or are scheduled for surgery, you should not take turmeric supplements. Turmeric may also interfere with certain medications, including those for diabetes, blood thinners and antacids.
Considerations
Do not take turmeric supplements without talking to your doctor, or use them to self-treat any medical condition. Turmeric has not been approved by the FDA to treat any medical condition. Supplements are not regulated the same as prescription drugs, so they may not contain the exact amounts and ingredients listed on the label. If you do take turmeric, make sure to purchase supplements from a reliable manufacturer.
