Turmeric is one of the prized spices, with an impressive list of health benefits. It is one of the most potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. In my practice, I see that there is a growing trend of taking turmeric (active ingredient – curcumin) as a supplement. In Ayurveda, great importance is given to vipaka (post-digestion effect). The vipaka of turmeric is pungent. Therefore, taking turmeric as a supplement creates stress in the liver, as our liver has a tendency to overheat. However, using turmeric in cooking changes the vipaka, as it gets mixed with foods with different post-digestion effects. This way, you get maximum health benefits from turmeric without creating unwanted stress in the liver. This is how it has been used in India for thousands of years, never as a supplement.

Purnima Chaudhari, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, Reflexologist & Reiki Master, AyuReviveAyurveda.com