The Mahdi Times The Mahdi Times, Issue #28, March 2015 | Page 38

illnesses. Taking large
amounts by mouth may
result in stomach pain, gas,
indigestion, and nausea.
Skin rash and stomach
ulcers have been reported
after long-term use, and
allergic reactions are
possible. People who are
allergic to ginger or yellow
food colorings are more
likely to be allergic to
turmeric. There have also
been reports of rashes
(contact dermatitis) after
touching curcumin.
A recent safety study in
humans suggested that
curcumin changes
metabolism of oxalate, a
substance that can form
kidney stones. The
researchers urged caution
in use of this supplement
by people with other
conditions that make them
susceptible to kidney
stones..
People taking bloodthinning medications,
drugs that suppress the
immune system, or nonsteroidal pain relievers
(such as ibuprofen) should
avoid turmeric because of

the risk of harmful drug
interactions. In animal and
laboratory studies,
turmeric made certain anticancer drugs less effective.
Antioxidant supplements
can interfere with the
effectiveness of
chemotherapy or radiation
treatment. Patients who are
in cancer treatment should
talk to their doctor before
taking vitamins, minerals,
or other supplements.
In addition, other potential
interactions between
turmeric and other drugs
and herbs should be
considered. Always tell
your doctor and
pharmacist about any
herbs or supplements you
are taking.
People with bile duct
blockage or gallstones and
those who have had
stomach ulcers also should
avoid turmeric. Women
who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this
herb. The amount of
turmeric found in foods is
thought to be safe for
those who are not allergic
to it. Applying turmeric to