Key benefits of turmeric include:

• Anti-Cancer Properties: Curcumin has demonstrated anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer cells. It can help inhibit tumour growth, prevent angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels to support tumour growth), and induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. 

• Brain Health: Curcumin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can have neuroprotective effects and potentially help with conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. It can also improve cognitive function and mood.

• Diabetes Management: Curcumin can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It can also have protective effects on pancreatic cells, which produce insulin.

• Digestive Health: Turmeric has traditionally been used to support digestive health. Curcumin can help reduce symptoms of digestive disorders such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. It can also have potential benefits for inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

• Exercise and Recovery: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of turmeric make it an amazing supplement to help with exercise- induced muscle soreness and help facilitate and promote recovery.

• Pain Relief: Curcumin has analgesic effects and can help alleviate pain, particularly in conditions like arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.

Avoid turmeric if taking the following medications:

• Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: Turmeric has blood-thinning properties and may enhance the effects of anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin, heparin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel), increasing the risk of bleeding. Use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

• Diabetes Medications: Turmeric may affect blood sugar levels and could interact with diabetes medications. Combining it with these medications could potentially enhance the medications' effects, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult a healthcare provider.

• Gastrointestinal Medications: Turmeric may increase stomach acid production, potentially interacting with medications used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or acid reflux. Use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

• Medications Metabolised by the Liver: Turmeric may affect the liver's ability to metabolise certain medications(e.g., hepatotoxi drugs). It could potentially increase or decrease the effectiveness of drugs metabolised by the liver. Consult a healthcare provider before combining turmeric with such medications.

• Immunosuppressants: Turmeric may enhance the effects of immunosuppressant medications, increasing the risk of infections or other complications(e.g., tacrolimus). Consult a healthcare provider before combining turmeric with immunosuppressants.

• Antibiotics: Turmeric may interact with certain antibiotics, affecting their effectiveness(e.g., norfloxacin, sulfasalazine). Consult a healthcare provider before combining turmeric with antibiotics.

• Iron Supplements: Turmeric may inhibit iron absorption, potentially reducing the effectiveness of iron supplements. Use caution and consider spacing the intake of turmeric and iron supplements apart.

• Medications for High Blood Pressure: Turmeric may interact with medications used to treat high blood pressure (e.g., amlopdipine). Consult a healthcare provider before combining turmeric with these medications.

Individuals with the following allergies or medical conditions should use caution or avoid turmeric:

• Allergy to Curcumin or Turmeric: Some individuals may be allergic to curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, or to turmeric itself. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like itching or rash to severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

• Gallbladder Issues or Gallstones: Turmeric may stimulate bile production, which could exacerbate symptoms or complications in individuals with gallbladder issues or gallstones. Consult with a healthcare provider before using turmeric if you have gallbladder problems.

• Bleeding Disorders: Turmeric has blood-thinning properties and may inhibit blood clotting. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should use turmeric cautiously to prevent excessive bleeding.

• Stomach Ulcers or Acid Reflux: Turmeric may increase stomach acid production, potentially worsening symptoms in individuals with stomach ulcers or acid reflux. Use turmeric with caution if you have these conditions, and consult with a healthcare provider.

• Diabetes: Turmeric may affect blood sugar levels and could interact with diabetes medications. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely when using turmeric and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for them.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited information is available on the safety of turmeric during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before using turmeric due to potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant.

• Iron Deficiency: Turmeric may inhibit iron absorption, which could worsen iron deficiency in susceptible individuals. Use turmeric with caution if you have iron deficiency, and consider monitoring your iron levels.