The 11 Best Turmeric Supplements of 2024, According to a Dietitian

Looking to reduce inflammation, improve heart health and increase overall full-body health? Check out our top picks for the best turmeric supplement.

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Among the most buzzworthy herbal ingredients of late is turmeric. It has historically been used in Indian medicine practices such as Ayurveda, and several research studies have shown the benefits of turmeric for a variety of health conditions. This bright yellow spice contains compounds called curcuminoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful as a supplement for joint health, pain relief, metabolic health and general health.

Aside from finding it in spice aisles, turmeric can also be found in golden milk lattes, turmeric teas and turmeric supplements.

In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best turmeric supplements on the market in 2024. Beyond that, you’ll also find a comprehensive guide to turmeric uses and benefits, safety considerations and how to choose and use these supplements.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best Turmeric Supplements of 2024:

• Best Overall Turmeric Supplement: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex
• Best Turmeric Supplement Subscription: KOS A Whole Latte Gold 
• Best Turmeric Supplement for Absorption: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex
• Best Turmeric Supplement with Black Pepper: MegaFood Turmeric
• Best Turmeric Supplement for Inflammation: Nature Made Turmeric Curcumin
• Best Turmeric Supplement for Mental Clarity: KOS A Whole Latte Gold 
  
• Best Turmeric Supplement for Joint Pain: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex
• Best Vegan Turmeric Supplement: Orgain Ultimate Turmeric
• Best Turmeric and Ginger Supplement: Zhou Turmeric with Ginger
• Best Turmeric Gummies: Nature Made Turmeric Gummies
• Best Turmeric Supplement for Arthritis: BioSchwartz Premium Ultra Pure Turmeric Curcumin

Best Overall Turmeric Supplement: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex

SI Showcase + Transparent Labs

• Price: $19.99
• Serving size: One capsule
• Servings per container: 60
• Price per serving: $0.33
• Turmeric per serving: 500 milligrams (as Curcumin C3 Complex extract)
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine black pepper extract (five milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains rice flour, hypromellose capsule and vegetable magnesium stearate.
• Certifications: Third-party tested

Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex contains a high concentration of curcuminoids, turmeric's most active compound, which is responsible for many health benefits, including improving depression and heart health. Additionally, the product contains piperine, which may boost curcumin absorption by as much as 2,000 percent, making it one of the most effective turmeric products. According to Transparent Labs, you can even take up to two capsules per day if you want a larger dose of turmeric extract.

In addition, Transparent Labs' products are tested by third-party labs for quality and purity, and you can find these reports using your bottle's lot number. There isn't a requirement for independent testing, so it's a good sign this is a reputable brand.

Many reviewers praise the quality of the supplement and the inclusion of piperine, and most reviews are positive. Reviewer Jacquelin M. writes, “I normally use a prescription med for my arthritis. I haven't used it since I began taking this turmeric product. Seriously, my feet feel fine and I'm hoping my hips follow suit. I've only been taking it a short while, so I'm giving it a bit of time to tell completely. But so far I am pleased.” Plus, if you like this turmeric, you can subscribe to get free shipping and save 10% on recurring orders.

What we like:

• Third-party tested for purity
• Subscribe and save option
• Paired with BioPerine for maximum absorption

What we don’t like:

• Lower dose per serving than some other brands

Best Turmeric Supplement Subscription: KOS A Whole Latte Gold

SI Showcase + KOS

• Price: $32.90 (one-time purchase); $29.61 (subscription)
• Serving size: One scoop
• Servings per container: About 28
• Price per serving: $1.17 (one-time purchase), $1.06 (subscription)
• Turmeric per serving: Unspecified since it's part of a proprietary blend
• Other active ingredients: Golden Mylk Blend (1.405 grams) containing organic turmeric, organic cinnamon, organic black pepper extract and organic lemon balm; Organic Mushroom Blend (300 milligrams) containing organic Cordyceps mushrooms, organic Lion's Mane mushrooms and organic red Reishi mushrooms
• Allergy info: Contains tree nuts. Also contains organic coconut milk, organic acacia gum, organic isomalto-oligosaccharide, organic coconut sugar, organic vanilla flavor, organic non-dairy cream flavor, organic monk fruit extract. 
• Certifications: USDA Organic, manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility

Never miss your daily dose of turmeric again with our pick for the best turmeric supplement subscription, KOS A Whole Latte Gold. Customers can subscribe for weekly or monthly delivery and save up to 20%.

This supplement is made using two proprietary blends. The first, “Golden Mylk Blend,” includes turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper extract and lemon balm. A Whole Latte Gold is also made with an organic mushroom blend, including Cordyceps mushrooms, Lion's Mane mushrooms and red Reishi mushrooms. Lion’s mane supplements may support brain health and improve memory.

KOS recommends using this powder as a non-dairy creamer and mixing it into warm water or your favorite milk or nut milk. While this isn’t your typical turmeric supplement, our tester, certified personal trainer Kate Meier, enjoyed it. “This warm drink reminded me of a comforting chai latte. It was delicious,” said Meier. Although the directions say to stir the powder, Meier said the results were better when using a shaker cup.

What we like:

• Our testers loved the taste
• Powder form is a good alternative to pill or capsule turmeric supplements
• Soy-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, USDA organic

What we don’t like:

• Made using a proprietary blend, so it’s unclear exactly how much turmeric is in each serving
• Contains tree nuts, so not allergen-friendly 

Best Turmeric Supplement for Absorption: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex

SI Showcase + Transparent Labs

• Price: $19.99
• Serving size: One capsule
• Servings per container: 60
• Price per serving: $0.33
• Turmeric per serving: 500 milligrams (as Curcumin C3 Complex extract)
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine black pepper extract (five milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains rice flour, hypromellose capsule and vegetable magnesium stearate
• Certifications: Third-party tested

Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex contains turmeric that is extracted from the dried rhizomes of the herb Curcuma longa. It’s standardized for 95 percent bioactive curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin—the main components of curcuminoids. This potent blend can reduce exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness and optimize recovery.

Generally, curcuminoids are not well-absorbed. This turmeric supplement contains BioPerine black pepper extract which works against poor absorption, rapid metabolism and rapid elimination. Black pepper, a main component of piperine, has been shown to increase absorption by 2,000 percent. That way, you can get all the health benefits each serving can provide.

Reviewers seem pleased. Charlene V. writes, “So far so good. Hoping relief continues from joint pain.”

What we like:

• Third-party tested
• Reasonably priced

What we don’t like:

• Lower dose of turmeric than other similar supplements

Best Turmeric Supplement with Black Pepper: MegaFood Turmeric

SI Showcase + MegaFood

Key info and specs

• Price: $30
• Serving size: Two tablets
• Servings per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1
• Turmeric per serving: 700 milligrams
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine
• Allergy info: None
• Certifications: Non-GMO verified, certified vegan

MegaFood Turmeric is designed to promote healthy joints and boost antioxidant levels. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties come from curcuminoids, which are a compound in turmeric root. 

This supplement has 700 milligrams of turmeric, which MegaFood says guarantees a minimum of 475 milligrams of curcuminoids. MegaFood Turmeric also contains a patented black pepper extract called BioPerine, which can help your body absorb nutrients more efficiently, which could lead to better results from the curcuminoids.

MegaFood Turmeric is certified vegan and non-GMO verified. It has also been tested for 125 pesticides. You can take the two tablets anytime during the day and with or without meals.

What we like:

• 700 milligrams of turmeric per serving is higher than many competitors
• Includes BioPerine for better absorption
• Non-GMO and vegan certified

What we don’t like:

• Premium pricing

Best Turmeric Supplement for Inflammation: Nature Made Turmeric Curcumin

SI Showcase + Nature Made

• Price: $13.99
• Serving size: One capsule
• Servings per container: 60
• Price per serving: $0.23
• Turmeric per serving: 500 milligrams
• Other active ingredients: None
• Allergy info: Gluten-free
• Certifications: USP verified

Nature Made Turmeric Curcumin is our pick for the best turmeric supplement for inflammation because each serving contains 500 milligrams of turmeric without any added flavors, colors or preservatives. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Health experts say people who struggle with inflammation as a result of conditions like arthritis, allergies, colitis and other infections may benefit from taking turmeric.

Our tester, certified personal trainer Lauren Strong, said she experienced noticeable benefits when she took these capsules. “I take other supplements to help manage my digestion, but I think that adding these Nature Made supplements were helpful. On the days that I took them I felt like my digestion improved,” Strong said. Strong did caution that these capsules have a very potent turmeric smell, but said she didn’t mind.

What we like:

• No added colors, artificial flavors or preservatives
• USP tested and verified for potency, ingredients and manufacturing process
• Our tester felt these supplements aided in her digestion

What we don’t like:

• These capsules contain just turmeric. Some health experts say it’s important to take black pepper with turmeric to increase the body’s ability to absorb spice

Related Post: The Best Anti-Inflammatory Supplements 

Best Turmeric Supplement for Mental Clarity: KOS A Whole Latte Gold

SI Showcase + KOS

• Price: $32.90 (one-time purchase); $29.61 (subscription)
• Serving size: One scoop
• Servings per container: About 28
• Price per serving: $1.17 (one-time purchase), $1.06 (subscription)
• Turmeric per serving: Unspecified since it's part of a proprietary blend
• Other active ingredients: Golden Mylk Blend (1.405 grams) containing organic turmeric, organic cinnamon, organic black pepper extract and organic lemon balm; Organic Mushroom Blend (300 milligrams) containing organic Cordyceps mushrooms, organic Lion's Mane mushrooms and organic red Reishi mushrooms
• Allergy info: Also contains organic coconut milk, organic acacia gum, organic isomalto-oligosaccharide, organic coconut sugar, organic vanilla flavor, organic non-dairy cream flavor, organic monk fruit extract. Contains tree nuts
• Certifications: USDA organic, manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility

For mood and brain function, this A Whole Latte Gold turmeric supplement from KOS is an ideal choice. In addition to turmeric extract, it contains several other ingredients that may improve brain health and function—including ginger and cinnamon. It also contains lemon balm which one study suggests can decrease anxiety and depression without the harmful side effects medication can have. Together, these ingredients can also help it function as a sleep aid. 

KOS products are free from artificial additives, sweeteners like erythritol and most common allergens like gluten, dairy and soy. There is a subscription option where you save 15% and other discounts if you bundle your order. KOS also offers a 60-day money back guarantee.

Most of the reviews on the KOS website are positive, and reviewers say it does seem to help with focus and mental function. One reviewer states, “Very tasty calming drink. I like to mix with hot milk before winding down for bed.” Our testers also loved the flavor—they described it as tasting like a bougie coffee shop drink, with earthy chai vibes. 

What we like:

• Reviewers praise its taste
• Includes other ingredients that may be beneficial

What we don’t like:

• Rather expensive
• Unclear how much turmeric is in the formula 

Best Turmeric Supplement for Joint Pain: Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex

SI Showcase + Transparent Labs

Key info and specs

• Price: $19.99
• Serving size: 1 capsule
• Servings per container: 60
• Price per serving: $0.33
• Turmeric per serving: 500 milligrams (as Curcumin C3 Complex extract)
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine black pepper extract (5 milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains rice flour, hypromellose capsule and vegetable magnesium stearate.
• Certifications: None listed

Turmeric’s ability to reduce joint pain in those with arthritis is well documented. And taking a turmeric supplement at a dose of 500 milligrams per day has also been shown to increase range of motion in arthritic joints, meaning it can significantly reduce inflammation, too.

Transparent Labs Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex has 500 milligrams of turmeric powder per serving. The formula also includes BioPerine to help your body absorb the turmeric more efficiently. If you’re suffering from chronic joint pain, or struggling with joint pain during exercise, this supplement could act as an effective, all-natural pain reliever that may work as quickly as OTC pain medications like Tylenol.

What we like:

• Ingredients are clinically dosed to reduce joint pain and increase range of motion in arthritic joints
• Budget-friendly price compared to competitors
• Third-party tested

What we don’t like:

• Some reviewers say the capsules are large and difficult to swallow

Best Vegan Turmeric Supplement: Orgain Ultimate Turmeric

SI Showcase + Orgain

• Price: $21.99
• Serving size: Three capsules
• Servings per container: 30
• Price per serving: $0.73
• Turmeric per serving: 1,350 milligrams
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine black pepper fruit extract (10 milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains hypromellose, organic brown rice powder, organic erythritol, organic sunflower lecithin, organic medium chain triglycerides (derived from coconut); gluten-free
• Certifications: N/A

Ultimate Turmeric from Orgain is a fully plant-based formulation that provides 1,350 milligrams of turmeric powder and 158 milligrams of curcuminoids alongside BioPerine black pepper extract for improved absorption. This supplement isn’t third-party tested, but Orgain is a well-known and trusted brand. Many of its sports supplements feature third-party certifications attesting to their purity.

You can also save money on this supplement by subscribing. You’ll save 35% on your first subscription order, and 10% on each subsequent order. Shipping is also free on subscription orders.

Reviewers like the convenience of the product, giving it a 4.7/5 star rating on Amazon, with 33 reviews. Verified buyer Janet H. writes, “I have tried a lot of brands and this one seems to really help the most.”

What we like:

• Subscribe and save options
• Higher dose of turmeric per serving than other brands

What we don’t like:

• Not third-party tested
• Erythritol may cause stomach upset in some users 

Best Turmeric and Ginger Supplement: Zhou Turmeric with Ginger

SI Showcase + Zhou

• Price: $19.99
• Serving size: Three capsules
• Servings per container: 30
• Price per serving: $0.66
• Turmeric per serving: 1,500 milligrams, plus 150 milligrams with 95 percent curcuminoids
• Other active ingredients: Ginger root extract (140 milligrams), BioPerine black pepper extract (10 milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains rice flour, vegetable cellulose capsule, vegetable magnesium stearate; vegan
• Certifications: Manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility

Ginger and turmeric are a common pairing, and for good reason. Both have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help boost immune health. These two components work synergistically, meaning they provide a stronger effect together than they would individually—this is what makes Zhou's turmeric unique. In addition to ginger, this turmeric supplement also contains black pepper to help boost curcuminoid absorption.

At Zhou, all products are tested in its lab in Utah and manufactured in a facility following cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices).

Colleen J, a reviewer on Amazon, lauds its anti-inflammatory properties saying, “I’ve been using Zhou Turmeric for age related stiffness of joints (57F) for three years now. I’m a hospital Nurse Tech and walk eight to 10 miles per 12 hour shift, working multiple shifts in a row. This product absolutely works wonders. At this point, I don’t notice it working daily, but if I miss a dose, boy can I feel it the next morning. The stiff, aching joints, tight hands that feel almost swollen, knees and back stiffness. Zhou has excellent quality control and consistency and are a trusted source for me. Just one turmeric capsule a day keeps the pain away for me.”

What we like:

• Manufactured in a cGMP facility and tested at the brand’s facility in Utah
• Contains ginger and BioPerine for optimum absorption

What we don’t like:

• Not third-party tested

Best Turmeric Gummies: Nature Made Turmeric Gummies

SI Showcase + Nature Made

• Price: $16.99
• Serving size: Two gummies
• Serving size per container: 30
• Price per serving: $0.56
• Turmeric per serving: 260 milligrams (as Curcumin C3 Complex standardized to 95 percent curcuminoids)
• Other active ingredients: Ginger root (10 milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains organic tapioca syrup, organic cane sugar, water, pectin, citric acid, natural flavor, sodium citrate, coconut oil, carnauba wax; gluten-free
• Certifications: N/A

For many people, gummy vitamins are easier to take than capsules or tablets because they’re chewable and they generally taste much better. These Nature Made gummies are mango-flavored and sweetened with cane sugar, making them a good choice if you dislike swallowing pills.

Although this particular product isn’t third-party tested, many of Nature Made’s supplements are independently tested and verified by United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a well-known and reputable third-party testing organization.

These gummies have good reviews, but it’s important to note that gummies generally contain fewer active ingredients than other types of multivitamins—and this turmeric gummy is no exception. It contains 260 milligrams of turmeric as Curcumin C3 Complex, while most tablets or capsules contain 500 milligrams or more. However, it is a good choice for people who cannot tolerate swallowing pills. “Got these for my husband since he has a hard time with pills. He's still taking them so that's good,” writes reviewer Christine Y.

What we like:

• Gummy form may appeal more to some users
• Also contains ginger

What we don’t like:

• Lower dose than most other turmeric supplements
• Not third-party tested

Best Turmeric Supplement for Arthritis: BioSchwartz Turmeric Curcumin

SI Showcase + BioSchwartz

• Price: $18.99
• Serving size: Three capsules
• Servings per container: 30
• Price per serving: $0.32
• Turmeric per serving: 1,350 milligrams, plus 150 milligrams with 95 percent curcuminoids
• Other active ingredients: BioPerine black pepper extract (10 milligrams)
• Allergy info: Also contains vegetable capsule; allergen-free, gluten-free and vegan
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified

This turmeric curcumin supplement from BioSchwartz features high-curcumin turmeric and black pepper extract to boost curcuminoid absorption. It contains a relatively high dose of turmeric compared to other turmeric supplements, and therefore may be more helpful for people wanting a specific benefit (such as arthritis pain relief)—especially with the added black pepper extract.

To make things even better, all BioSchwartz supplements are third-party tested for purity and potency, and this turmeric supplement is also Non-GMO Project Verified.

BioSchwartz recommends taking the supplement with food. Splitting the three daily capsules into multiple doses throughout the day may help boost absorption as well.

It's undeniable that this turmeric stands out, as it has over 84,000 reviews on Amazon averaging 4.5/5 stars at the time of writing. Plus, it’s Amazon’s top best seller in the Curcumin Herbal Supplements category. “I took this product for problems I was having from 52 years of being in the construction industry and I have to say that it actually wiped out about 35 years of pains in my knees so I was very impressed with this product,” writes an unnamed verified reviewer on iHerb.com.

What we like:

• Reasonably priced
• Third-party tested for purity
• Some users may appreciate that this supplement is non-GMO

What we don’t like:

• Three capsule serving size may be too much for some users 

What Is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that comes from the Curcuma longa plant, a close relative of ginger. As with ginger, the portion of the plant we use is the rhizome—which is an underground portion of the plant (but not technically a root).

Turmeric is commonly used in Indian cuisine and is one of the key ingredients in curry powder. It’s also used as a natural dye to add yellow color to foods like mustard and chicken broth.

Turmeric also has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine. One of the key compounds it contains, curcumin, is highly anti-inflammatory. “Chronic inflammation contributes to many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases,” says Lindsay Delk, RDN. “So antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, such as curcumin, can reduce the risk for these diseases.” Curcumin isn’t an essential vitamin, like vitamin D or vitamin C, but research studies have found that it possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.

For these reasons, it’s commonly taken as a dietary supplement.

Who Should and Shouldn't Take a Turmeric Supplement

Turmeric appears to be safe for most people. Some people, particularly those taking medication, should exercise caution before taking turmeric supplements. Turmeric and curcumin may interfere with several different types of medications, including blood thinners, heart medications, antidepressants, antibiotics and allergy medications. While these interactions have been mild in most instances, you should speak with your healthcare provider prior to taking turmeric supplements if you’re using any prescription medications.

Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your care provider before using turmeric supplements or beverages. Many of these products contain added herbal ingredients that may not be safe for pregnant women or breastfed infants.

In general, “There is also a potential for side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea if taken in large amounts,” Delk adds. Always consult with your doctor before starting any supplement regimen.

Turmeric Forms

Turmeric comes in numerous forms. For culinary use, you can purchase it as a powdered spice or in the whole rhizome form. Bagged and loose teas featuring turmeric are also fairly easy to find, as are golden latte mixes—which powdered drink mixes that contain turmeric and often other herbal ingredients. They can be prepared by mixing with hot milk or plant-based milk, and a sweetener of your choice.

Here are some of the different forms turmeric is available in as a dietary supplement:

• Capsule: Gel capsules that contain powdered or liquid turmeric
• Tablet: Pressed pills made with powdered turmeric, which can be coated or non-coated
• Tincture: Highly concentrated liquid turmeric
• Gummy: Turmeric in a chewable, sweet-tasting form

Turmeric Dosage: How Much Should I Take?

Choosing the right amount of turmeric to take a supplement can be confusing. This is because, depending on how much regular turmeric and high-curcumin turmeric a supplement contains, the strength and potency can differ drastically. Depending on your needs, your doctor or registered dietician will determine the correct amount.

A standard turmeric powder that you purchase for cooking may contain anywhere from 2 to 5 percent curcumin. However, most supplement forms contain turmeric that is standardized to provide a higher dose of curcumin, typically 95 percent.

Supplements that contain turmeric will often disclose how much curcumin they contain on the Supplement Facts label as a percentage. For example, you may see “Turmeric (standardized to contain 95 percent curcuminoids)” or something similar.

The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that up to three milligrams per kilogram (or 1.36 milligrams per pound) of your body weight per day is a safe amount of curcuminoids to be consumed as a food additive.

However, there are no established guidelines for supplemental turmeric or curcumin intake. Many turmeric supplements provide anywhere from 500-2,000 milligrams of turmeric, but typically only a small portion of that included turmeric is standardized to contain 95 percent curcuminoids. “Taking too much can be dangerous and may interact with certain medications,” Delk says.

Because there are no established safe amounts, it’s important to choose a high quality turmeric supplement from a reputable brand (like one featured above), and to always follow package directions.

Best Time to Take a Turmeric Supplement

Curcumin is a powerful compound, but it’s very poorly absorbed by the body. Timing may make a difference in how much you’re able to absorb.

For this reason, some supplement manufacturers say it’s helpful to take turmeric with a meal. “Taking turmeric with a meal that contains some fat can further improve absorption, since curcumin is fat-soluble,” says registered dietitian and nutrition coach Barbara Kovalenko. Turmeric supplements may also be split in two daily doses separated by several hours (though it doesn't have to be at the same time each day) to aid in absorption. However, neither of these claims have a lot of scientific evidence to back them up.

If you’re concerned about absorption, choose a turmeric supplement that contains added piperine or black pepper extract, which has been proven to increase curcumin absorption by up to 2,000 percent.

Turmeric Supplement Benefits

Numerous health benefits have been attributed to turmeric, mostly because of the curcumin it contains. Here are some of the research-backed uses for turmeric curcumin supplements:

• Inflammation: Curcumin supplements may help decrease inflammation. Use of these dietary supplements has been linked to decreased levels of several blood inflammatory markers.“Chronic inflammation is associated with various diseases, including heart disease, cancer and metabolic disorders,” Kovalenko says. “Curcumin inhibits the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, potentially reducing inflammation and related health risks.”
• Oxidative stress: Turmeric supplements may have antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and damage to cells caused by free radicals.“Curcuminoids neutralize free radicals and enhance the activity of the body's antioxidant enzymes, promoting overall health and well-being,” Kovalenko says. 
• Cholesterol: Research shows that turmeric and curcumin can help to reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may reduce heart disease risk.
• Blood pressure: Long-term turmeric or curcumin supplementation may reduce systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading).
• Joint health: Turmeric supplements can reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, making them a viable alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like acetaminophen and ibuprofen. “Curcuminoids may help alleviate symptoms by reducing joint inflammation and inhibiting certain enzymes involved in cartilage breakdown,” Kovalenko says. 
• Brain function: Curcumin supplementation for at least eight weeks may increase levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which may help improve mood, cognitive function, memory and some brain disorders that are linked to low BDNF.
• Depression: Turmeric curcumin supplements may help reduce depression and anxiety symptoms as part of a treatment plan for people with depression.
• Blood sugar levels: Turmeric and curcumin supplements can help significantly reduce blood sugar levels, which may reduce your risk of developing diabetes or make your diabetes easier to manage. Plus, they can even help out with digestive issues, Kovalenko says. “Curcuminoids can stimulate the production of bile, which aids in digestion and the breakdown of fats. They may also protect the gut lining and help manage symptoms of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).”

Turmeric Side Effects

Turmeric has few notable side effects. As mentioned above, it may interact with some medications, so it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider if you’re taking any prescription drugs.

Otherwise, it appears to be mostly safe. Still, some people may experience mild and transient side effects when taking turmeric or curcumin supplements, including:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Skin rash
• Yellow stool

Large amounts of turmeric may also contribute to the formation of oxalate kidney stones in some people. Likewise, curcumin in very high doses may contribute to anemia, liver injury and heart problems.

Additionally, culinary turmeric and turmeric supplements are often adulterated with additives, fillers and dyes. In this report, investigators found that 71 percent of turmeric products from American store shelves contained unnecessary solvent residues.

How We Chose the Best Turmeric Supplements

We based our choices for top turmeric supplements on a specific set of criteria, with input from our experts. The key factors include:

Quality of raw materials. Top curcumin sources that provide the percentage of curcuminoids, generally from 95 to 98 percent.
Turmeric and curcumin content per serving. 250 milligrams to 1,500 milligrams per serving
Other active ingredients. BioPerine is shown to improve absorption, while ginger and other ingredients can also support turmeric’s effects
Availability of subscription plans. Options to subscribe and save
Customer reviews. Online ratings posted by users
Third-party testing. Certification from independent labs to ensure quality
Form. Selection and quality of different forms and flavors, if available
Price and value. Doses of turmeric general range from $0.30–$1.50 per serving

Learn more about our product review process.

Best Turmeric Supplements FAQs

What type of turmeric is best for health?

While turmeric adds great flavor to food and may offer some health benefits, turmeric supplements with higher concentrations of curcuminoids are a better choice if you are seeking specific health benefits. To get the highest potency, look for turmeric pills that contain turmeric extracts that are at least 95 percent curcuminoids.

How long does turmeric take to work?

How long turmeric takes to work depends on several factors, including the turmeric and curcuminoid content of your supplement, how consistently you take it, conditions that may affect how well your body absorbs the supplement (like taking it with or without a meal) and your own unique biochemistry. Many research studies showed beneficial effects after 12 weeks, so it may be a good idea to take the supplement for at least three months before you decide to stop it.

What happens if you take turmeric everyday?

Turmeric supplement benefits may include reduced inflammation, pain relief, better blood sugar control, joint support and improved mood. However, these benefits aren’t guaranteed.

How many milligrams of turmeric should I take per day?

There are no set guidelines for turmeric intake from supplements. Most supplements contain anywhere from 500 to 2,000 milligrams of turmeric per serving. For these reasons, it’s important to choose a reputable product and follow the directions for use outlined on the packaging.

Is a turmeric powder or pill better?

Turmeric pills are typically a better choice for supplements. Most turmeric supplements are available as capsules or liquid formulations. The capsules contain turmeric powder that has been standardized to contain higher amounts of curcumin than the turmeric powder used for cooking.

Why should I take turmeric and ginger together?

Like turmeric, ginger offers some anti-inflammatory benefits. Ginger may also be helpful for your immune system, and it is often used to help settle nausea. When used together, they may have a stronger anti-inflammatory supplement effect.

Does eating turmeric have the same effect as taking a turmeric supplement?

Not really. The curcumin content in turmeric is relatively low—around two to five percent, Kovalenko says. “Consuming turmeric alone may not provide enough curcumin to exert therapeutic effects.” 

The Takeaway: Is Turmeric Worth It? 

Turmeric supplements, especially high-quality ones that utilize black pepper to help absorption, can be helpful for anyone who is suffering from inflammation, joint pain, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and more. 

Before starting any new supplement, remember to check with your doctor in case of any adverse reactions. 

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.