Looking for a respectable turmeric supplement? Let’s start from the beginning. Turmeric is a spice that is yellow in color and commonly found in curry dishes. But did you know that it has been used in India for thousands of years for much more than just flavoring food? In fact, according to this source, turmeric has been proven over the years to be one of the best supplements for your kidney.
It’s great for helping both your body and your brain thanks to its medicinal properties. In particular, turmeric contains bioactive compounds that will work wonders on your body. The best compound is curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant that also provides anti-inflammatory effects. It is what gives turmeric its distinctive yellow color, and is also what will provide you with all of these amazing health benefits.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Jarrow Formulas
- 5 out of 5
Our rating - Provides Antioxidant Support
- Price: See Here
- Doctor's Best
- 4.6 out of 5
Our rating - Neutralizes Free Radicals
- Price: See Here
- Now Foods
- 4.2 out of 5
Our rating - Turmeric & Bromelain
- Price: See Here
You will find that turmeric will help increase your body’s amount of antioxidants while also increasing the performance of your existing antioxidants. Antioxidants play a big role in neutralizing the free radicals in our bodies, which cause disease and contribute to the overall aging of our bodies.
This supplement has many other benefits including helping reduce the risk for heart disease, treating depression, treating arthritis, and even helping to cure cancer. And, as we mentioned earlier, turmeric is also great for your mind. Studies have shown it can help to improve brain function and memory. If you are older in age, taking a turmeric supplement can help fight against the natural aging of your brain and your potential decline in brain function.
Thanks to it’s many medicinal properties and powerful compounds, there is a long list of benefits associated with this spice. However, if you are wondering if you will have to eat curry every day in order to receive these benefits, don’t worry. While turmeric is delicious and flavorful, the best way to consume it for its health benefits is through a supplement.
There are tons of supplements on the market today, which can make it hard to decide which to choose. The best turmeric supplement ideally will be focused on curcumin, containing at least 95% of it. In its natural state, turmeric contains low levels, which is why it will be better to take a supplement that will contain the extract. Additionally, it is important to note that it can be hard to absorb in the bloodstream. However, the way to fix this is by taking it with black pepper.
Many supplements will contain black pepper for this very reason, which can help you when making a decision of what is the ideal turmeric supplement to use.
10 Best Turmeric Supplements
1. Jarrow Formulas
Jarrow Formulas targets the best part of turmeric and provides you with a high amount of it. This supplement is comprised of 95% curcuminoids, and nothing else.
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Concetration on main ingredient: 95%
Usage: 1 capsule daily with food
This product additionally is gluten free, vegan, and contains no fish or peanuts, making it safe for anyone’s diet. This option is the best choice for you if you want a pure supplement, and one that doesn’t need to be taken multiple times a day. This is also a very affordable supplement, making it a great option for anyone who is on a more limited budget.
Pros
- Gluten free
- 100% vegan
- Contains no fish or peanuts
2. Doctor's Best C3
Doctor’s Best is the next supplement on our list, and this product contains a high concentration of the most important ingredients, as well as bioperine.
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Concentration of main ingredient: 95%
Usage: 2 capsules daily with food
This product is great because it is 95% pure and contains enough of the bioperine to help increase absorption levels. This supplement is a little pricier than some of the other ones on this list, but you are getting a great product that is sure to be effective because of the mix of ingredients. Additionally, this supplement is non-GMO, gluten free, and soy free.
Pros
- Contains bioperine
- Non-GMO
- Gluten free
3. Now Foods
Now Foods turmeric supplement is a bit different from other supplements we have discussed. While this still has the right amount of the most important ingredient (standardized to 95%), it also contains bromelain.
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Bromelain is an enzyme that is derived from pineapples, and is said to help with the immune system by reinforcing its natural response. The combination of these two ingredients will help to boost enzyme and antioxidant levels while also supporting a healthy immune system. In particular, this supplement is focused on promoting joint health by improving and maintaining joint tissue.
It is very affordable and is also a vegetarian and vegan product. If you are specifically struggling with joint issues, or wish to have a supplement that contains bromelain, this will be the one for you.
Pros
- Boosts the immune system
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Inexpensive
4. Paradise Herbs
This turmeric supplement, courtesy of Paradise Herbs, is focused entirely on the turmeric root extract itself, with a 4:1 ratio of the extracted turmeric.
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Concentration of main ingredient: Not specified
Usage: 1 capsule daily
What is great about this product is that there are absolutely no other ingredients used. Even the cleanest of products typically contain 2 or 3 other ingredients, but the root extract is the only thing it contains. Paradise Herbs uses a completely natural extraction method in order to preserve all of the natural benefits the turmeric root has to offer. This is the best turmeric supplement for someone who wishes to have a product focused on all of the benefits the turmeric root has to offer, instead of a focus on the extract of one particular compound.
Pros
- 4:1 ratio of the extracted turmeric
- Potent formula
- Quality ingredients
5. Planetary Herbals
This supplement from Planetary Herbals contains bioperine (black pepper extract). Bioperine is simply an extract of black pepper, which will help with the absorption of the most important ingredients.
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Concentration of main ingredient: 95%
Usage: 1 tablet three times a day
It also contains turmeric rhizome, which is the actual root part of the turmeric. The product combines the specific benefits from the main ingredient along with the overall benefits turmeric has by including the rhizome, along with bioperine to help with absorption. There’s a reason this is labeled as full spectrum!
It is also affordable, which is good since it is recommended you take 3 tablets each day. This is the best option for you if you are looking for a supplement that offers all of the benefits turmeric has to offer.
Pros
- Contains Bioperine
- Inexpensive
- Potent formula
6. Thompson Standardized
For a product that contains only the main ingredient and nothing else (except for the gelatin used to form the capsule), Thompson is the supplement for you!
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This supplement guarantees 95% concentration of root extract that is used in their capsules. The purity of this supplement is what makes it so great, as there are no other ingredients to be found. Additionally, this is one of the most affordable options on this list, making it a great choice for anyone, even if you are on a budget.
If you really want to make each bottle last, only take one capsule daily to have this bottle last 60 days.
Pros
- Contains 95% root extract
- Potent formula
- Small capsules
Cons
- Not suitable for vegetarians and vegans
7. Eclectic Institute
This supplement from Eclectic Institute is another on this list that is focused on the turmeric rhizome.
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In fact, this company grows their own turmeric and harvests it for their supplements, guaranteeing the freshness and purity of their products. All of the turmeric is organically grown and harvested and is the only thing you will find in this supplement (no fillers)! Additionally, this supplement is non-GMO, vegan, and 100% kosher.
Finally, it is also very affordable and will last you up to 90 days (as there are 90 capsules per bottle).
Pros
- Non-GMO
- 100% vegan
- 100% kosher
Cons
- Contains only 33% of the displayed value of tumeric
8. ReserveAge Nutrition
This product from ReserveAge Nutrition uses certified organic turmeric root extract that is standardized to 95% of root extract.
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While this option costs a little more than others on this list, you are getting a product that you know is certified organic.
Additionally, it contains their own patent pending Truesorb technology that will help with the absorption of the main ingredient. This supplement is all natural and contains no additives or fillers.
Pros
- Certified organic turmeric root extract
- No additives
- No fillers
- All natural ingredients
9. Organic India
Organic India produces this next supplement, and it is another full spectrum product you are sure to love.
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Amount of curcumin: 95%
Usage: 1 capsule twice daily with food and water
Ginger is known to help with digestive issues and can help soothe nausea. Additionally, this is an affordable product that is also gluten free and produced with certified organic herbs. If you are looking for digestive help along with anti-inflammatory help, this will be the best turmeric supplement for you.
Pros
- Potent formula
- Gluten free
- Certified organic herbs
10. Source Naturals
The last one is from Source Naturals. It contains bioperine and bromelain (pineapple extract) in addition to the turmeric root extract that is standardized to 95%.
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Concentration of main ingredient: 95%
Usage: 1-3 tablets daily
This product is slightly more expensive than some other products listed, but it is worth the money to have the added bioperine and bromelain to help with the absorption of the main ingredient.
Finally, it is also safe for people with any diet, as it is gluten free, dairy free, and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Pros
- Gluten free
- Dairy free
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
Benefits
Turmeric is a root used for generations amongst people who know it’s
benefits. Mostly used in the countries within the Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh etc), it comes with a host of benefits and has now made its way to the rest of the world. Often used as a spice in powder form, it is mostly commonly known because of its bright yellow color and used in curry powder, mustard, butters and cheeses for its flavor. From skin to medicinal and over all benefits, Turmeric is a wonder root that should not be taken lightly.
Skin Benefits
Turmeric is a major ingredient is some of the most famous skin care masks that can be made at home. It has components that not only help to get rid of uneven
skin tone but also help with giving a natural glow to the
skin. Beauty gurus have been opening Turmeric Capsules and using the ingredients as part of skin care masks for ages. Though it can slightly stain lighter skin tones a pale-yellow color, its benefits as a beauty mask are unparalleled. When mixed with yogurt and honey, the turmeric mask helps get rid of acne and cleanses the skin of any natural dirt or grime build up.
Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing Action
It also performs anti-inflammatory actions for people and reduces joint paint for those suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee or even rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, in the Indian Subcontinent, people make a paste out of turmeric and use it on wounds or even drink it mixed with milk, often referred to as Golden Milk, to promote wound healing.
Antioxidant Activity
Since antioxidants protect our bodies from free radicals, having components that increase the levels of antioxidants are highly beneficial. Turmeric helps with this activity in 2 ways. It firstly blocks the free radicals but helps boost the levels of antioxidants in the body that protect against these free radicals.
Delay Onset of Diabetes
Studies have shown that the effects of the main ingredients found in turmeric are beneficial for people who fall under the category of “prediabetes”. This means that people with high glucose levels benefit from turmeric. Literature states that ingestion of turmeric may be better at regulating blood glucose than regularly used diabetes medication. The usage of turmeric is also good for patients who have diabetes as it lessens the effects of diabetes like neuropathy or nephropathy.
Weight Loss
Some studies also show that the ingestion of turmeric aids in
weight loss. Research has found that it can decrease blood cholesterol levels – especially LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol. This can reduce cholesterol levels and help with weight loss by reducing the increase in fatty tissue. This in turn makes it useful for body builders and athletes who want to reduce body fat and increase muscle mass.
Brain Health
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. Turmeric has been shown to possibly delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It may also improve brain function by increasing the growth of new neurons and fight degenerative developments in the brain. Turmeric supplement intake has also shown benefits for people who may be depressed. It has revealed a stronger anti depressive effect than conventional medicine like Prozac- all without their extreme side effects. A study indicated that turmeric’s main ingredients can elevate the levels of brain neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine (the feel-good neurotransmitters) which over all gives an anti-depressive effect.
Usage Recommendations 
Turmeric as a supplement is quite safe in the body even in larger doses. The standard dose depends entirely on the purpose it is being used for. For example, people suffering from osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis may benefit from doses between 400mg- 600mg twice daily. A very useful tip when it comes to starting supplements of turmeric is keeping a dosage log. This means you can start with smaller, and relatively safer doses of turmeric and see how they alleviate symptoms. With the passing days, you can gradually increase the dose and see which dose best fits your need. Alternatively, it is always recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new regimen of supplements especially if you are already taking other medications.
As mentioned, with the ingestion of Turmeric, it is important to consume it in the best way possible. To gain the complete benefits of this nutrient, you’ll need to take a supplement with black pepper extract.
Furthermore, turmeric supplements have low bioavailability and must be ingested within the time frame of needed action. It is also a good idea to take it immediately after a workout so it can provide useful pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. For those people that are just looking to include this substance in their lives for its properties, it is a good idea to take it at that time during the day when pain or inflammation is highest so it can provide immediate effects.
Turmeric is fat soluble. This means that to get past the stomach into the small intestine and into the blood where it can offer the greatest benefits, it must be taken with a fatty food. To improve the absorption, turmeric supplements can be taken with foods like avocado, taking them with smoothies, or even eating it with a meal of stir fried vegetables. It is advisable to take them in the morning because if taken at night, the supplements may cause sleep disturbances. If you do take them at night, it may be a good idea to watch for any irregularities in your sleep patterns and then talk to your doctor about it.
Some Precautions and General Information
Precautions
Even at high levels turmeric is known to be safe and has negligible side effects, however, it is always possible to experience side effects when it comes to supplements. Some of the known side effects of turmeric are: nausea, diarrhea, indigestion or dizziness, stomach pain, gas, skin rash (after long-term use), stomach ulcers (after long-term use) and allergic reactions.
Pregnant and breast feeding women should avoid it as there have been no studies conducted into it effects. People who are on other medications should also consult a doctor or a pharmacist before incorporating turmeric supplements into their regimen.
General Information
As is the case with any other supplement, there are plenty of brands in the market that sell the same or similar product. However, looking out for products that suit your needs is extremely important. For example, people with dietary needs may want to look out for brands that cater to vegetarian or vegan needs while others may want to look out for allergies or even the kind of dosage they require.
There are many ways in which turmeric can be ingested in a natural format. It can be found as a root, in powder format or as supplements.
Criteria for Evaluation
Recommending ANY product of any sort is no easy feat. When it comes down to turmeric supplements, it is crucial to receive a quality recommendation. Turmeric found in nature does not carry as high levels of turmeric to provide benefits immediately. It must be extracted at 95% to provide its actual benefit. It is due to this reason that every product has been thoroughly researched and evaluated so when you use it, you get what you signed up for.
Product Testing
Product testing is that phase of product evaluation in which claims made by the manufacturer or the labels on the product are put to the test. This is probably one of the most important phases of any evaluation since it displays just how true to its word a product is. For instance, Now Food’s Turmeric and Bromelain capsules are supposed to help boost the immune system due to the addition of Bromelain in this formula while Paradise Herbs’ Turmeric 4:1 concentrated potency capsule is supposed to be highly potent. It is during this phase that we test these claims.
User Reviews and Ratings
This is another vital aspect of product evaluation. Taking the word of hundreds of users who themselves have used a particular product is important because they express their opinions and experiences with these products. While we test these products too, it is difficult to gauge the effect of a product on just one person. The reviews of multiple people indicate just how well a product is received on a larger scale. The chances of a side effect or a positive experience showing up amongst a large group of people are much higher than just a few people testing out a product. Also, people from all walks of life leave reviews and ratings which is more indicative of how all people react to a product.
It is due to these reasons that we put as much research and time into finding out what the mass perception has been, how their experiences were and then select the products that not only had the best reviews but also ratings. Furthermore, with our own testing and the combination of reviews we are able to form a very helpful list that makes it easier to judge each product. This list is further broken down into pros and cons which further provides transparency to each product. For instance, pros like potent formula, inexpensive and small capsules in comparison to cons like not suitable for vegetarians and vegans or contains only 33% of displayed value of Turmeric really helps build a helpful list.
Potential for Side Effects
In some cases, the body may react unusually to certain supplements, even if these are considered safe to use by anyone. Taking turmeric supplements has shown to be relatively safe however very large quantities should be avoided. The powder/ supplement is more potent than the raw root and hence smaller quantities are needed. Taking this into consideration, we always recommend those products in the market that have the fewest and least harmful side effects. For a complete list please see above.
Manufacturers Reputation
Another vital aspect that is taken into consideration as criteria for evaluation is the reputation of the manufacturer. It is important to us to bring to you brands and manufacturers that are well known and also well received. Brands with the best products in terms of quality, effects and certification are prioritized. Jarrow Formulas, Doctor’s Best, Now Foods, Paradise Herbs, Thompson, Eclectic Institute, ReserveAge Nutrition, Organic India, Source Naturals are some of the trustworthy and good quality brands that have been included in this list.
Safety of the Supplement
Dietary supplements are known to be absolutely safe for the body when taken in safe quantities and a little over as well. Supplements like turmeric have been used in curry and raw form for years around the world and are hence considered safe. These products are designed to help rid of various ailments and also improve the quality of life as long as they are taken in their recommended doses. Our list of products come from manufacturers who are known for their excellent market reputation and produce their supplements under certified conditions. Unless you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, these products are more than safe to be used.
Ingredients and Their Effectiveness
Thorough research will indicate that turmeric supplements do consist of other ingredients than just turmeric. High potency of ingredients like binding agents etc are also found as part of the ingredient list. If you are looking for a complete list of ingredients, most websites selling online do carry this information. You may notice ingredients like cellulose, Silica and Magnesium Stearate or even gelatin depending on the formulation as part of the ingredient list, however, these are ingredients that are safe for consumption.
One of the main difference between the brands of turmeric supplements is how much curcumin iis to be found n each capsule. As long as the dosage is within the limits usually accepted as standard, all these products with be safe and effective. If you are confused about which dosage is correct for you or how many times a day to take it, please view the usage recommendations section above for further information.
Lastly, we take into consideration reviews to see if the product is truly efficient. If you are looking to find a good turmeric supplement for you, we encourage you to check our benefits section and see if the turmeric benefits described is what you are after. Also, checking online reviews of the suggested products will give you a better idea of how users have reacted to taking the supplements on our list and how much have they benefited from the same. Making an informed decision before starting any product will not only help in the long run but also make life easier. Talking to you doctor about the right dose or even product is what will really help you narrow down the right product for you.
FAQs
Q) Who should take turmeric supplements?
Turmeric supplements have a host of benefits and people who are looking to avail these benefits should use these supplements. People suffering from chronic inflammation are some of the main users while patients of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis specifically benefit greatly. People who qualify has prediabetic may notice delayed onset of diabetes with these supplements while the antioxidant activity of this supplement is of great use as well. Lastly, body builders and athletes looking to lose weight may benefit from its weight loss characteristic as well.
Q) Do they have side effects?
Anything used in extremely large quantities or more than its recommended limit may result in side effects in people. Some of the commonly seen side effects of Turmeric supplements are nausea, diarrhea, indigestion or dizziness, stomach pain, gas, skin rash (after long-term use), stomach ulcers (after long-term use) and allergic reactions.
Q) Where to buy them?
Each of our recommended products above are followed by online links to stores like Amazon that not only offer you the best price but also allow a complete and comprehensive look into the attributes of a product. Each product has user reviews and rating for you to look at and then purchase. Lastly, various large chain grocery stores also carry turmeric supplements in their “vitamin and supplements” isle.
Q) Which turmeric capsules are the best?
It is our absolute effort to bring to you those brands of supplements that are not only the safest but also the most effective. Through research and testing has gone into the recommendation of the products mentioned in this list: Jarrow Formulas, Doctor’s Best Turmeric Supplement, High Absorption, Now Foods, Paradise Herbs, Thompson, mg, Eclectic Institute, ReserveAge Nutrition,, Organic India, Source Naturals.
Q) What dose should I use?
The dose depends on the purpose it is used for. For a comprehensive look, please read the usage recommendations above.
Q) What is the difference between turmeric and curcumin supplements?
Essentially, curcumin is a component of turmeric. Turmeric, as a root in powder form is more commonly found and is used in dishes around the world. Curcumin is found as an extracted product as is found in supplement form. Turmeric is more commonly found as 95% of curcuminoids.
Q) In what forms is turmeric supplement available?
Turmeric supplements are most commonly found in capsule form. The dosage range is available from 300mg to 1000mg and should be taken according to the usage recommendations.
Q) Where can I naturally get it from?
Turmeric in its natural form is found only as a root and can be used as is or in a powder form.
Q) How important are these supplements for athletic use?
It really depends on what you are trying to achieve by taking these supplements. Body builders and athletes often suffer from inflammation of the limbs post rigorous exercises or work outs. Also, athletes are some of the first to injure themselves due to the stress they put their bodies under.
Supplements like turmeric have wound healing properties that have been displayed over centuries. By taking these supplements not only will an athlete benefit by healing quicker but will also an anti-inflammatory action that is also beneficial. Also, turmeric has weight reduction characteristics. For athletes and body builders who are looking to increasing muscle mass and reduce body fat, turmeric supplements help achieve this goal (see above).
Decision Time
Now that you have seen all of our choices, it is time to decide which is best for you! It will be easiest to make this decision based on what you are looking for. Do you want an emphasis on curcumin, or do you prefer a more holistic approach based on turmeric rhizome? Do you wish to have added ingredients that help with absorption, or do you want the fewest ingredients as possible?
Our complete guide will help you make the right decision. All of these products are great natural choices, and we hope this guide has helped you find the perfect solution to your needs.
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