Turmeric Root (Rhizome)

The root-like underground stem of the turmeric plant, the primary source of curcuminoids
Botanicals Spices

Scientific Name

Curcuma longa rhizoma

Benefits

  • Contains curcuminoids (including curcumin)
  • Source of volatile oils
  • Traditional use for inflammation
  • Contains essential oils and resins

Safety Notes

Generally recognized as safe when used as directed. May interact with blood thinners, acid reducers, and diabetes medications. May increase risk of bleeding when taken in high doses. Not recommended in high doses during pregnancy.

⚠️ Safety Information

Turmeric Lead Contamination

Turmeric from South Asian sources may contain dangerous lead levels from industrial adulteration

More Details & Sources
Studies show turmeric from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh often contains lead chromate pigment added to enhance color. Levels can exceed regulatory limits by 500+ times. The practice began in the 1980s when floods damaged crops, and traders used lead chromate to mask poor-quality roots.

Recommendations:

  • Choose turmeric from US/European manufacturers with third-party testing
  • Avoid loose turmeric powder from South Asian imports
  • Look for USP Verified, NSF Certified, or ConsumerLab tested products
  • Prefer organic certification (additional testing required)

Scientific Sources:

Last updated: 2024-11-08

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About Turmeric

A bright yellow spice derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Back to Turmeric

Forms of Turmeric Root (Rhizome)

🌱 Fresh Turmeric Root (Rhizome)

Fresh, unprocessed turmeric rhizome used in cooking and traditional preparations

🌱 Dried Turmeric Root (Rhizome)

Dried pieces of turmeric rhizome used in traditional medicine

🌱 Turmeric Powder

Ground powder from dried turmeric rhizome, commonly used as a spice and supplement

🌱 Turmeric Extract

Concentrated extract of turmeric standardized for curcuminoid content

3 products available
🌱 Curcumin 95%

Highly purified extract containing 95% curcuminoids

🌱 BCM-95 (Curcugreen)

Patented formulation of curcumin enhanced with turmeric essential oils for improved bioavailability

🌱 Meriva (Phytosome Curcumin)

Patented curcumin formulation using phospholipid technology to enhance bioavailability