Curcumin extraction refers to the process of isolating curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. This is typically done using solvents to extract the curcumin from dried turmeric roots. The resulting extract is concentrated and purified to ensure high curcumin content.
While liposomal curcumin encapsulates curcumin in liposomes, enhancing absorption and stability, leading to better therapeutic effects at lower doses. Curcumin extract requires higher doses for similar effects. Lipo curcumin formulations are generally more expensive but offer superior efficacy. Curcumin extract is more cost-effective but may need additional agents like piperine to improve absorption.
In the Food Industry
Compound seasonings/Noodles and pasta products/Meat products/Beverages.
In Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, it is known for its warming properties and is used to treat conditions like blood stagnation, menstrual issues, pain relief, liver and gallbladder disorders, and rheumatism. Today, curcumin extract is commonly found in dietary supplements, especially for liver health and to relieve symptoms of joint pain like arthritis. Common formulations include capsules, tablets, and powders.
People with Gallstones: Turmeric can promote gallbladder contraction, potentially triggering pain if you have gallstones.
People with Kidney Stones: Curcumin is rich in soluble oxalates, which can combine with calcium to form calcium oxalate crystals, a common type of kidney stone. If you are prone to kidney stones, it's best to limit your curcumin intake to no more than one teaspoon per day.
No, turmeric extract contains various compounds, with curcumin being the active ingredient responsible for its therapeutic effects. Curcumin is usually concentrated in extracts to provide stronger health benefits.
Curcumin is fat-soluble, meaning it's better absorbed when consumed with fatty foods. To maximize absorption, take curcumin powder with a meal that contains at least 15 grams of fat, or consider using curcumin supplements combined with black pepper extract (piperine), which significantly enhances absorption.
The effective dosage of curcumin is typically 500 to 1000 mg per day, depending on the individual's health goals and conditions.
Turmeric powder offers a variety of health benefits, including:
Reducing inflammation and joint pain
Supporting liver and digestive health
Boosting the immune system
Enhancing skin health
Fighting oxidative stress
Improving cognitive function and reducing brain aging
Experts recommend using high-quality curcumin supplements, especially those that contain 95% curcumin extract, as used in clinical trials. These supplements ensure potent therapeutic effects and better bioavailability.
Turmeric may interact with certain blood-thinning medications, so if you're on any of the following, consult your doctor before using turmeric:
Heparin
Coumadin (Warfarin)
Aspirin
Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Voltaren, Cataflam (Diclofenac)
Advil, Motrin (Ibuprofen)
Anaprox, Naprosyn (Naproxen)
Fragmin (Dalteparin)