Turmeric, known as Indian Saffron is a popular spice that has been used in South East Asian cooking and religious ceremonies for thousands of years.
A relative of ginger, this rhizome has been used in traditional Ayurveda and Chinese medicine to heal a variety of conditions.
Turmeric has extensive anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties and owes it to the presence of curcumin, a naturally-occurring chemical. (1), (2)
Owing to its ability to confer a host of health benefits, turmeric is available and marketed as a natural supplement in the form of powder, liquid, gummies, and in combination with other powerful ingredients.
This article explores the different possibilities of taking a turmeric supplement and highlights the best choice in each category.
Our Best Picks:
1. Best Turmeric Supplement with Black Pepper – VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus
2. Best Turmeric with Meriva – Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva®
3. Best Budget Turmeric Supplement – Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin
4. Best Turmeric Powder Supplement – Bulk Supplements Turmeric Extracts
5. Best Turmeric Liquid Supplement – Wellabs Turmeric Curcumin
6. Best Turmeric Gummies – BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger Gummies
Now let’s take a closer look at each of these turmeric supplements and see why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best With Black Pepper: VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus
Black pepper, when added in the right dosage, can increase the bioavailability and efficacy of turmeric in both animals and humans, with no side effects. (3)
About VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus
VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus is a top-ranking supplement that harnesses the goodness of turmeric and curcumin to provide support for joint health and enhanced immunity.
Combined with a powerful combination of Bioperine®, a patented black pepper extract with piperine, this all-natural supplement is loaded with polyphenols and antioxidants to help maintain physical health and well being.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 capsules contain:
- Organic Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) (Root) – 1200 mg
- Turmeric 95% Curcuminoids – 100 mg
- BioPerine® – 10 mg
VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus is available as a pack of 60 capsules for a month’s consumption. It can be taken once daily 20-30 mins before meals for maximum efficacy. This supplement is best used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Manufactured in an FDA registered facility in the USA with adherence to GMP regulations, VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus is a non-GMO, gluten-free supplement with natural ingredients.
The capsules are made of vegetable cellulose and are suitable for vegans. The product does not require a prescription and the company offers an exchange or refund policy within 30 days of purchase in case of dissatisfaction.
The Pros:
- 100% natural ingredients
- A Potent combination of turmeric root, curcumin, and black pepper
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
Summary: VitaPost Turmeric Curcumin Plus is a completely natural, non-GMO supplement that provides maximum bioavailability of turmeric and curcumin. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly, a month’s supply of this supplement assures a daily dose of health and well-being.
2. Best With Meriva: Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva®
Curcumin is the most important polyphenol present as a curcuminoid in turmeric. Meriva® is a patented formulation of natural food-grade curcumin and lecithin. The proprietary Phytosome® technology optimizes the bioavailability of the curcuminoids in turmeric for 29-fold better absorption and effectiveness. (4)
Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva®
Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva® is a unique supplement that nourishes the body with extracts of turmeric to protect against damage by free radicals.
The potent curcumins in turmeric are powerful and are recommended for maintaining smooth joint functions, eye health, improving small vessel circulation, prostate, and muscle health.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 capsules contain:
Curcumin Phytosome® (Meriva®)
- Phospholipids-Curcuminoids Complex – 1000 mg
- Curcumin and other Curcuminoids, minimum 180 mg
The suggested dosage is 2 capsules a day, preferably with meals, and can be extended to a maximum of 4 capsules daily. The capsules are made of vegetable cellulose and 1 container can provide up to 90 servings. One can also choose 30 servings if they want to try it out.
Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva® is manufactured in the USA under cGMP regulations with Meriva® obtained from Italy.
This supplement is clinically researched and third-party tested for purity and safety. It is a non-GMO product, free from gluten, soy, and suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
The Pros:
- Research-backed Meriva® with Curcumin Phytosome® technology for better and rapid absorption
- Third-party tested
- 180 Vegetarian capsules
- Suitable for vegans and vegetarians
Summary: Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva® is a supplement that uses advanced technology to deliver beneficial curcuminoids with better absorption. Third-party tested and vegan friendly, it provides multiple benefits including joint, eye health, and protection against free radicals.
3. Best Budget: Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin
The cost of turmeric supplements is dependent on the quality of turmeric used, as well as, the other ingredients added in it for better efficacy.
It is usually hard to find a supplement that is budget-friendly and yet does not compromise on the quality.
Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin
Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin is a well-known supplement that is enriched with turmeric and curcumin extracts and comes at an extremely cost-effective price.
With beneficial polyphenols and curcuminoids that have high antioxidant properties, this supplement is designed to provide long-term support to fight cell damage and prevent rapid aging.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 capsule contains:
- Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) (Root) – 450 mg
- Turmeric Extract (Curcuma Longa) (Root)
(Standardized to contain 95% Curcuminoids) – 50 mg
Nature’s Bounty also manufactures the same product with 538 mg and 1000 mg strength. The 1000 mg includes 5mg of BioPerine® black pepper extract in its formula.
The capsules in each bottle are intended as a 2 month supply and the recommended dosage is one capsule a day with meals for efficacy. The capsules are gelatin-based and have added magnesium stearate from a vegetable source. The capsules can be opened and the contents can be used in the form of a tea.
Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin is manufactured in the USA with strict adherence to quality assurance and GMP standards. The turmeric is sourced from China and is non-GMO. It is tested for heavy metals and the final product is re-tested for purity and potency.
This supplement is also free from artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, sugar, and preservatives. Nature’s Bounty Turmeric Curcumin is free from gluten, soy, yeast, milk, fish, and sodium for complete safety in consumption.
The Pros:
- Highly affordable
- One capsule a day or capsule content can be used in tea and consumed
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives
- Free from sugar, sodium and other allergens
Summary: Nature’s Bounty Turmeric and Curcumin is an extremely budget-fitting supplement that bestows the benefit of antioxidants for cell protection and aging. Despite the low cost, it offers the best turmeric quality free of any artificial ingredients and allergens for complete safety and efficacy.
4. Best Powder: Bulk Supplements Turmeric Extracts
Using a powdered supplement may benefit one in terms of direct absorption in the body and the convenience to adjust the desired quantity.
Turmeric powders mix easily in water or other liquids and may be faster acting than pills, as they don’t require the waiting time of the outer capsule to dissolve.
Plus, turmeric in a powder form gives you the advantage of using it as a tea decoction, a paste or just consuming it as a quick mix in water.
Bulk Supplements Turmeric Extracts
Turmeric Extracts by Bulk Supplements is a powerful, all-natural supplement that contains potent turmeric extracts to provide support with joint health, digestion, eye health, maintain healthy brain functioning and cardiovascular health.
What it Contains:
Each serving contains:
- Turmeric Extract (Curcuma longa L.) (Root) – 1000 mg
Standardized to contain ≥95% Curcuminoids
Available in different measurement sizes, the suggested dosage for Turmeric Extracts is ½ teaspoon (1000 mg) every day mixed in 8 oz water or as recommended by a physician. The powder is of high concentrate and hence can stain easily.
Turmeric Extracts is distributed by Bulk Supplements after undergoing intensive lab testing in an FDA registered facility in the USA. The turmeric is sourced from China and raw materials are produced in GMP compliant facilities.
The final product is tested for heavy metals, microbes contamination, purity, and potency before distribution. Turmeric Extracts is free from sugar, additives, and other allergens such as soy, gluten, and dairy assuring safety in consumption.
The Pros:
- A high potency of 1000 mg per half teaspoon
- Lab-tested for heavy metals and microbes contamination
- Free from sugar and additives
- Free from soy, gluten, and dairy
Summary: Turmeric Extracts by Bulk Supplements provides potent turmeric extracts in a powder form. Distributed by a reliable brand with years of experience in supplements, this product assures safety, purity, and efficacy to provide a host of benefits to nourish your physical and mental well-being.
5. Best Liquid: Wellabs Turmeric Curcumin
Liquid supplements are one of the best forms of supplements because they have higher concentrations of turmeric extracts and just a few drops are enough to provide the complete benefits of turmeric for your health.
Liquid drops are also non-messy, portable, and easy to use, anywhere, anytime.
Wellabs Turmeric Curcumin
Wellabs Turmeric Curcumin is a powerful liquid turmeric supplement with the power of concentrated turmeric and curcumin in every drop to enhance brain function, joint health, eye, heart health, alleviate back pain and promote immunity. The added Bioperine® ensures higher bioavailability and absorption of turmeric.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of two droppers contains:
- Proprietary Blend – 400 mg
(Turmeric Root, Turmeric/ Curcumin 95%, Black Pepper Extract)
Designed to provide 400 mg per 2 droppers, this supplement can be taken 3 times a day to experience the benefits of turmeric extracts effectively
The taste is naturally pleasant and user reviews suggest using it either directly or added to juices or other liquids for easy consumption.
Wellabs Turmeric Curcumin is manufactured in an FDA approved GMP compliant facility in the USA. It is a 100% natural supplement with non-GMO ingredients. It is third-party tested for purity and safety.
This product is free from sugar, preservatives, chemicals, additives, and allergens such as soy, gluten, and wheat. The company assures 100% satisfaction with this quality product.
The Pros:
- Potent turmeric and curcumin extract concentrate of 1200 mg per day
- The liquid form ensures higher concentration and bioavailability
- Third-party tested for purity
- Free from sugar, preservatives, and additives
Summary: Wellabs Turmeric and Curcumin is a powerful liquid supplement with added black pepper extracts for enhanced bioavailability of turmeric and curcumin. Free from additives, sugar, and allergens, this supplement acts as a powerful immunity booster and provides maximum benefit for organ health.
6. Best Gummies: BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger Gummies
Turmeric is an effective supplement for all-round health. Using turmeric gummies is even more appealing as children and adults equally enjoy it.
Using gummies is an easy way of making children eat vitamins or natural foods. Gummies are also a better option for the elderly who face trouble in swallowing capsules or tablets.
BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger Gummies
BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger Gummies is a top-ranking supplement loaded with extracts of turmeric and ginger to protect the body.
It has antioxidants that prevent deterioration of joint and muscle health, relieve pain, inflammation, and enhance skin health. Its black pepper content ensures more bioavailability and better absorption of turmeric in the body.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 gummies contain:
- Turmeric Extract (10%) – 300 mg
- Ginger Extract (10:1) – 50 mg
- Black Pepper Extract (10:1) – 10 mg
Ideal for both kids and adults, these gummies are chewy, delicious with a natural fruit flavor, and leave no after-taste. The gummies are coated to avoid stickiness and melting. Each bottle contains 60 gummies to last for a month’s consumption.
Manufactured in GMP approved facility in the USA, BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger gummies are made of natural non-GMO ingredients that are quality tested at every stage till the distribution.
This product does not use any artificial colors or additives. Free from soy, egg, gluten, nut, and milk it is suitable for vegan consumption.
The Pros:
- A potent combination of turmeric, ginger and black pepper extracts
- Suitable for kids and adults
- Delicious natural fruit-flavored gummies
- Non-GMO and quality tested at every stage
- Free of artificial ingredients, additives, and allergens
Summary: BeLive Turmeric Curcumin & Ginger gummies are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger. With zero additives or artificial ingredients, these gummies provide a range of health benefits to both children and adults, in a delicious and natural way.
Dosage Instructions for Turmeric Supplements
Turmeric can be highly effective when adhered to recommended dosages.
Turmeric is widely used in cooking in SouthEast Asian cuisine. But unfortunately, the amount of curcumin that is available through food-grade turmeric or powders is only 3% by weight. (5)
Supplement forms of turmeric use higher concentrations of turmeric extract which provides higher availability of curcumin for varied benefits. Years of research on turmeric has indicated that turmeric dosages can vary depending on the conditions for which it is being used.
Completed trials have shown that consumption of turmeric is safe and tolerable in ranges starting from 0.2 g for several conditions, 8 gm per day in cancer patients, and up to 12 gm a day in patients with multiple myeloma. (6)
Curcumin is a chemical present in turmeric and researched for various benefits. But research shows that curcumin is poorly absorbed even in supplemental form. Black pepper extracts in turmeric supplements can enhance bioavailability and absorption of curcumin by nearly 2000%. (7)
Manufacturers usually recommend taking turmeric supplements before or with meals to prevent heartburn and for better efficacy, but it is better to check with your doctor regarding intake, dosage, and timing before taking supplements.
Summary: The curcumin in raw turmeric powders used in cooking is low and supplements provide much higher concentration for increased benefits. Black pepper enhances bioavailability. Turmeric supplement dosage can vary depending on your medical condition.
Side-effects and Risks of Using Turmeric Supplements
Turmeric is a natural spice and generally considered safe. But like any other food or supplement, too much turmeric can be unfavorable to health.
Side effects such as nausea or diarrhea have been reported in certain cases of dose escalation. (8)
Turmeric has also been used as a cosmetic in India. Studies have revealed that curcumin in turmeric can act as an allergen for some people. (9)
Individuals with kidney stone issues might want to restrict turmeric supplements. Research indicates that turmeric supplements may increase urinary oxalate levels that in turn increases the risk of kidney stone formation. (10)
High doses of turmeric supplementation can affect the absorption of iron that can result in iron-deficiency induced anemia in certain individuals. (11)
Turmeric supplements can cause interaction with certain medications. People under prescribed medications, pregnant or nursing women should always consult a practitioner before starting any turmeric supplements. (12)
Summary: Turmeric is usually safe in moderate doses. Excess intake can cause diarrhea, affect iron absorption, or increase kidney stone formation in certain people.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I use Turmeric Supplements for?
Turmeric and its main compound curcumin has been proven to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties that can help in relieving a number of ailments.
Turmeric supplements can be used to get relief from conditions such as arthritis, digestive disorders, wound healing, eye problems, cardiovascular issues, cognitive health, certain types of cancer, and to boost overall immunity.
When is the Best Time to Take a Turmeric Supplement?
Turmeric supplements can be taken before or with meals to avoid any gastrointestinal troubles.
Taking turmeric before foods aids in better digestion. For more clarity, please check with your doctor for ideal time and dosage.
Is it Safe to Take Turmeric Supplements Every Day?
Turmeric supplements are usually safe for most people. The duration depends on the condition for which it is recommended. Studies show that turmeric supplements have been proven safe when taken for periods upto 4 months.
Since long-term use of turmeric can result in GI distress, it is advisable for those prone to allergies, having certain medical conditions to check with their doctor before using these supplements.
Why do Some Turmeric Supplements Have Black Pepper Extracts?
Turmeric supplements contain curcumin, a chemical, that is responsible for providing most of the health benefits. But curcumin by itself is poorly absorbed.
So, black pepper extracts which contain Piperine are added to turmeric supplements to enhance better absorption and to make curcumin more bioavailable to the body, for maximum benefits.
Are Turmeric Supplements Vegan?
Turmeric is a rhizome of a plant and hence perfect for vegetarians and vegans. But turmeric supplements available in the form of capsules may use gelatin, which is from an animal source. Check ingredient labels for gelatin that may indicate unsuitability for vegetarians or vegans.
How Can I Choose a Good Turmeric Supplement?
You can choose a good turmeric supplement based on 6 main considerations. The reputation and long standing market presence of a brand, source and processing methods, the ingredients used, adherence to the recommended dosage, cost, and user reviews.
The Final Note
Turmeric is an Indian spice with curcuminoids that is used in cooking and is capable of therapeutic properties to provide a host of medical conditions.
Raw turmeric powder though beneficial only provides minimal quantities of curcumin and this gap can be filled with the help of supplements that contain concentrated turmeric and curcumin extracts.
Turmeric supplements are available in forms of pills, powders, liquid, gummies, and different ingredients for enhanced bioavailability and efficacy. Choosing a supplement depends on every individual’s needs.
Apart from the requirement, factors such as brand, recommended dosage, ingredients used, and user reviews will help in choosing a supplement that will fulfill all your needs and provide the best benefits of turmeric and curcumin for your overall health and well being.
