Turmeric
Turmeric (tur mer' ik) is a widely used herbal product derived from the roots of Curcuma longa, a perennial plant belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) that is native to India but grown throughout Southern Asia and in central America. Extracts of the rhizomes of turmeric contain volatile oils and curcuminoids (such as curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and others) which are believed to be the active antiinflammatory components of the herb and are often collectively referred to as curcumin. The antiinflammatory effects of turmeric and curcumin are thought to be mediated by inhibition of leukotriene synthesis. Curcumin has also been reported to have antineoplastic effects, mediated perhaps by inhibition of intracellular kinases.
Turmeric has been used in traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine to treat many conditions including indigestion, upper respiratory infections and liver diseases. Turmeric and curcumin are under active evaluation as antiinflammatory and antineoplastic agents, for treatment of diabetes and hyperlipidemia and as therapy of liver diseases including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The scientific bases for the purported effects of turmeric are not well established and rigorous proof of its efficacy in any medical condition is lacking. Commercial preparations of turmeric and curcumin vary widely in curcuminoid content. The recommended daily dose varies widely (100 to >1,000 mg daily), depending on the preparation used (curcuminoids vs turmeric extract), formulation (tablets, liquid, root extract, tea) and indications. Side effects are uncommon and mild but may include dermatitis and gastrointestinal upset.
Source: LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Turmeric.