Precautions and allergies of curcuma longa

Posted by jagdev singh on December 7th, 2017

Usually, turmeric or curcuma longa does not cause any significant allergy, yet, people have complained about experiencing stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea and dizziness. Turmeric can also cause hives if an allergic skin contact occurs. You should avoid taking high doses of turmeric. Following are the precautions one must take while using turmeric:

• Bleeding problems- turmeric is known to slow blood clotting. Therefore, its use might result in bleeding problems in people suffering bleeding disorders.
• Infertility- curcuma longa may reduce the testosterone level and decrease sperm production when taken by men in high quantity. This may result in infertility in men.
• Gallbladder problems-  you must not use turmeric in case of bile duct obstruction and gall stones. Use of turmeric in such conditions might make the problem worst.
• Surgery- it is suggested to stop use of turmeric 2-3 weeks before undergoing a surgery as it may cause extra bleeding during the surgery due to its slow blood clotting properties.
• Diabetes- turmeric has a chemical called curcumin which decreases blood sugar. People with diabetes must use turmeric cautiously and adjust their medicines according to that. It is suggested to consult a physician before using turmeric.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease-it is a stomach disorder. Turmeric allergy or its overdose can cause stomach upset. Therefore, it may prove to be worse for people suffering from GERD. If you notice any symptom of GERD you should stop taking turmeric.
• Iron deficiency- turmeric might prevent bodily absorption of iron. People with iron deficiency should use turmeric very carefully.
• Hormone sensitive conditions- curcumin present in turmeric sometimes acts as a hormone estrogen. Turmeric’s effect on hormone sensitive conditions is argued. These hormone sensitive conditions include ovarian cancer, breast cancer, uterine fibroids or uterine cancer. Turmeric might make these conditions worse. But researches have shown that turmeric helps in reducing the estrogen in cancer cells. Therefore, until more is known it is advised to use turmeric with caution.
• Pregnancy and breast feeding- the intake of turmeric should be limited in case of pregnant and breast- feeding women.  It might increase the risk during pregnancy or result in excessive bleeding in case of lactating women. Therefore, its best to avoid its use in such conditions.

Turmeric belongs to the same family along with ginger. That is why, people with ginger allergy are likely to be allergic to turmeric also. Therefore, advised to consult an allergist before using turmeric.