To Cancer : Complementary and Integrative Therapies of Cancer.

Natural Standard assigns a letter grade for indications based on the quality of available scientific evidence (view Grading Rationale). Letter grades have the following meaning:
- Strong scientific evidence for this use; – Good scientific evidence for this use; – Unclear scientific evidence for this use; – Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); – Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).
Uses based on scientific evidence Scale

Grading Rationale
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified health provider.
Cancer

The root of turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn.) has long been used in Asian medicine for many health conditions. Curcumin is the component of turmeric responsible for its yellow coloring. Several early animal and laboratory studies report anti-cancer (colon, skin, breast) properties of curcumin. Many mechanisms have been considered, including antioxidant activity and direct effects on cancer cells. Reliable human studies are lacking in this area. It remains unclear if turmeric or curcumin has a role in preventing or treating human cancers.
Dyspepsia (heartburn)

Turmeric has been traditionally used to treat stomach problems (like indigestion from a fatty meal). There is preliminary evidence that turmeric may offer some relief from these stomach problems. However, at high doses or with prolonged use, turmeric may actually irritate or upset the stomach. Reliable human research is necessary before a recommendation can be made.
Peptic ulcer disease (stomach ulcer)

Turmeric has been used historically to treat stomach and duodenal ulcers. However, at high doses or with prolonged use, turmeric may actually further irritate or upset the stomach. In animals, turmeric taken by mouth protects against ulcers caused by irritating drugs or chemicals, and increases protective mucus. Currently, there is not enough human evidence to make a firm recommendation, and well-designed studies comparing turmeric with standard medical therapies are needed.

Notably, the bacteria H. pylori are a common cause of ulcers, and treatment for these bacteria should be considered by people with ulcers, in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
Gallstone prevention/bile flow stimulant

It has been said that there are fewer people with gallstones in India, which is sometimes credited to turmeric in the diet. Early animal studies report that curcumin, a chemical in turmeric, may decrease the occurrence of gallstones. Limited human research suggests that curcumin may stimulate squeezing (contraction) of the gallbladder and stimulate bile flow. However, reliable human studies are lacking in this area. The use of turmeric may be inadvisable in patients with active gallstones.
High cholesterol

Animal studies suggest that turmeric may lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (“bad cholesterol”) and total cholesterol in the blood. Preliminary human research suggests a possible similar effect in people. Better human studies are needed before a recommendation can be made.
Inflammation

Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. Reliable human research is lacking.
Osteoarthritis

Turmeric has been used historically to treat rheumatic conditions. Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin, which may be beneficial in people with osteoarthritis. Reliable human research is lacking.
Rheumatoid arthritis

Turmeric has been used historically to treat rheumatic conditions, and based on animal research may reduce inflammation. Reliable human studies are necessary before a recommendation can be made in this area.
Scabies

Historically, turmeric has been used on the skin to treat chronic skin ulcers and scabies. It has also been used in combination with the leaves of the herb Azadirachta indica ADR or “Neem.” Preliminary research reports that this combination may help in treatment of scabies. It remains unclear if turmeric alone has beneficial effects. More research is necessary before a firm recommendation can be made.
HIV

Several laboratory studies suggest that curcumin, a component of turmeric, may have activity against HIV. However, reliable human studies are lacking in this area.
Uveitis (eye inflammation)

Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. A poorly designed human study suggests a possible benefit of curcumin in the treatment of uveitis. Reliable human research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.

The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited study. They have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Alzheimer’s disease, antifungal, antispasmodic, anti-venom, appetite stimulant, asthma, bleeding, bloating, boils, bruises, cataracts, colic, contraception, cough, diabetes, diarrhea, dizziness, increased sperm count/motility, epilepsy, gallstones, gas, gonorrhea, heart damage from doxorubicin (Adriamycin®, Doxil®), hepatitis, high blood pressure, insect bites, insect repellent, jaundice, kidney disease, leprosy, pain, parasites, ringworm, lactation stimulant, liver protection, menstrual pain, menstrual period problems/lack of menstrual period, liver damage from toxins/drugs.

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Standardization

Standardization involves measuring the amount of certain chemicals in products to try to make different preparations similar to each other. It is not always known if the chemicals being measured are the “active” ingredients. Turmeric may be standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids per dose. The dried root of turmeric is reported to contain 3% to 5% curcumin.

Turmeric may be combined with bromelain, because it is believed that this will enhance absorption of turmeric into the body. A lipid base of lecithin, fish oils, or essential fatty acids may also be used to enhance absorption. Additional benefit from these special formulations is not proven.

Adults (18 years and older)

Oral (by mouth): Traditional doses range from 1.5 to 3 grams of turmeric root daily, divided into several doses. Studies have used 750 milligrams to 1.5 grams of turmeric daily in three to four divided doses, with doses up to 8 grams daily used for the treatment of duodenal ulcer. As a tea, 1 to 1.5 grams of dried root may be steeped in 150 milliliters of water for 15 minutes, and taken twice daily. Average dietary intake of turmeric in the Indian population may range between 2 to 2.5 grams, corresponding to 60 to 200 milligrams of curcumin daily.

Topical (for treatment of scabies): One reported method is to cover affected areas once daily with a paste consisting of a 4:1 mixture of Azadirachta indica ADR (“Neem”) to turmeric, for up to 15 days. Scabies should be treated under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Children (younger than 18 years)

Topical (for treatment of scabies): One reported method is to cover affected areas once daily with a paste consisting of a 4:1 mixture of Azadirachta indica ADR (“Neem”) to turmeric, for up to 15 days. Scabies should be treated under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

Allergic reactions to turmeric may occur, including contact dermatitis (an itchy rash) after skin or scalp exposure. People with allergies to plants in the Curcuma family are more likely to have an allergic reaction to turmeric. Use cautiously in patients allergic to turmeric or any of its constituents (including curcumin), to yellow food colorings, or to plants in the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family.

Side Effects and Warnings

Turmeric may cause an upset stomach, especially in high doses or if given over a long period of time. Heartburn has been reported in patients being treated for stomach ulcers. Since turmeric is sometimes used for the treatment of heartburn or ulcers, caution may be necessary in some patients. Nausea and diarrhea have also been reported.

Based on laboratory and animal studies, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Limited animal studies show that a component of turmeric, curcumin, may increase liver function tests. However, one human study reports that turmeric has no effect on these tests. Turmeric or curcumin may cause gallbladder squeezing (contraction) and may not be advised in patients with gallstones. In animal studies, hair loss (alopecia) and lowering of blood pressure have been reported. In theory, turmeric may weaken the immune system, and should be used cautiously in patients with immune system deficiencies.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Historically, turmeric has been considered safe when used as a spice in foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, turmeric has been found to cause uterine stimulation and to stimulate menstrual flow, and caution is therefore warranted during pregnancy. Animal studies have not found turmeric taken by mouth to cause abnormal fetal development.

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

Based on laboratory and animal studies, turmeric may inhibit platelets in the blood and increase the risk of bleeding caused by other drugs. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants (“blood thinners”) such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

Based on animal studies, turmeric may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver’s “cytochrome P450” enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may be increased in the blood, and may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. If you are using any medications, check the package insert and speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible interactions.

Turmeric may lower blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol). Thus, turmeric may increase the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs such as lovastatin (Mevacor®) or atorvastatin (Lipitor®).

In animals, turmeric protects against stomach ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin®), and against heart damage caused by the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (Adriamycin®).

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Based on animal studies, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba, some cases with garlic, and fewer cases with saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases. Some examples include: alfalfa, American ginseng, angelica, anise, Arnica montana, asafetida, aspen bark, bilberry, birch, black cohosh, bladderwrack, bogbean, boldo, borage seed oil, bromelain, capsicum, cat’s claw, celery, chamomile, chaparral, clove, coleus, cordyceps, danshen, devil’s claw, dong quai, evening primrose, fenugreek, feverfew, flaxseed/flax powder (not a concern with flaxseed oil), ginger, grapefruit juice, grapeseed, green tea, guggul, gymnestra, horse chestnut, horseradish, licorice root, lovage root, male fern, meadowsweet, nordihydroguairetic acid (NDGA), onion, papain, Panax ginseng, parsley, passionflower, poplar, prickly ash, propolis, quassia, red clover, reishi, Siberian ginseng, sweet clover, rue, sweet birch, sweet clover, vitamin E, white willow, wild carrot, wild lettuce, willow, wintergreen, and yucca.

Based on animal studies, turmeric may interfere with the way the body processes certain herbs or supplements using the liver’s “cytochrome P450” enzyme system. As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements to be too high in the blood. It may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements possibly have on the P450 system, such as bloodroot, cat’s claw, chamomile, chaparral, chasteberry, damiana, Echinacea angustifolia, goldenseal, grapefruit juice, licorice, oregano, red clover, St. John’s wort, wild cherry, and yucca.

Turmeric may lower blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol). Thus, turmeric may increase the effects of cholesterol-lowering herbs or supplements such as fish oil, garlic, guggul, or niacin.

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