Turmeric is a staple in Indian kitchens – used extensively to flavour the food, for colour, and of course the medicinal value. It is packed with an active ingredient – curcumin which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support brain health and improve digestive issues.

However, there are many social media claims regarding the spice being able to heal cancer or detoxify the liver, which experts say are false and bogus. Doctors say cooking with ground turmeric is safe, but overusing its supplements can lead to stomach ulcers or kidney stones.

So, is there a way to know if you are consuming too much turmeric? Nutritionists say while there is no standard or recommended dose of turmeric that you should take daily, the standard dosage is 3 mg per kilogram of body weight, as per the World Health Organization (WHO).

Studies suggest taking 500 mg of curcumin extract twice a day can help reduce inflammation in those with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It also helps improve memory and attention in older adults.

Consuming more than prescribed levels can lead to various side effects, which experts say is mainly due to contamination with low levels of lead in it. Also, while many turmeric supplements support liver health, doctors warn that these same products can harm the liver if overconsumed. In those who have hepatitis or reduced or blocked the flow of bile from the liver, it is advised they should completely avoid taking turmeric. A study suggested that turmeric-related liver injuries are increasing in the United States, in part due to a combination of eating turmeric along with black pepper.

Many experts also suggest it is best to avoid turmeric supplements since there are no health regulations and it becomes difficult to decipher which products are effective as well as safe.

According to doctors, if you are already adding ground turmeric to your daily meals, there is no need for a supplement.

According to Medical News Today, it is advised doctors not to take turmeric, if you are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Those who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer
• Those who have liver or bile duct problems
• Those who take anticoagulants or antidiabetic medications
• Those who underwent surgery within the last two weeks

What are the benefits of ground turmeric?

Doctors say that curcumin helps, prevents, and even reverses inflammation - which is a common problem in many diseases, which include:

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