Contents
- What Are Curcumin Supplements?
- 10 Best Curcumin Supplements
- Designs for Health – Curcum-Evail 400
- Pure Encapsulations – Curcumin 500 With Bioperine
- Thorne – Curcumin Phytosome
- Nature Made – Turmeric Curcumin Capsules
- Qunol – Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex
- Natural Factors – CurcuminRich Theracurmin
- Integrative Therapeutics – Theracurmin HP
- Arg – CurcuWIN® 500
- Puritan’s Pride – Turmeric Curcumin With Bioperine
- Garden of Life Organics – Extra Strength Turmeric
- Side Effects of Curcumin Supplements
- How Did We Evaluate The Best Curcumin Supplements?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Curcumin supplements utilize the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of curcumin. They may help lower inflammatory markers, support joint health, and support a resilient immune function.
Although turmeric is commonly used in cooking, it contains only a small amount of curcumin. For those seeking a more concentrated and effective dose, curcumin supplements may offer additional support. These supplements often come in various forms, such as capsules, powders, or tablets, which may offer versatility in consumption.
In this blog, we discuss the 10 best curcumin supplements available in the market. The article also covers the evaluation factors on which we ranked the curcumin supplements, alongside the potential side effects of curcumin supplementation.
What Are Curcumin Supplements?
Curcumin supplements feature curcumin, the active compound found in the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa). Curcumin itself makes up only about 1-6% of turmeric by weight, which requires the need for supplementation, especially if you seek to decrease inflammation and support immunity.
Studies suggest that curcumin supplements may help lower the severity of joint pain, especially in people with arthritis. Curcumin might also increase the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor or the BDNF protein, which may positively impact cognitive processes like learning and memory.
There are different types of curcumin supplements. Some are mixed with piperine (from black pepper), which may help your body absorb curcumin more efficiently. Others use special forms like nanoparticles or liposomal curcumin, which might enter the bloodstream more easily.
Curcumin supplements are typically safe, but they might trigger side effects, such as stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or headaches, especially in cases of overconsumption. They might also have negative interactions when taken alongside blood thinners (like warfarin).
10 Best Curcumin Supplements
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Designs for Health – Curcum-Evail 400
Designs for Health Curcum-Evail provides 400mg of curcumin extract powder per softgel. It is standardized to contain 380 mg of three bioactive curcuminoids, namely curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. These curcuminoids may help support a balanced inflammatory response, protecting bodily cells from oxidative stress.
As per the official site, Curcum-Evail 400 uses a proprietary Evail™ emulsification technology, which aims to overcome the low bioavailability that typically limits the effectiveness of curcumin. The delivery system integrates quillaja extract, delta- and gamma-tocotrienols, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to enhance the absorption of curcumin.
Other supportive compounds in the Curcum-Evail 400 formula include turmeric oil, sunflower lecithin, beeswax, and annatto (for natural coloring), all of which contribute to the supplement’s stability and bioactivity.
Pros
- May provide antioxidant support to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Free from common allergens, such as GMOs, gluten, dairy, and soy.
- Requires taking only one softgel per day.
- Could help support better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Cons
- Softgels may leak, causing a mess and staining pill containers and hands.
- The large capsule size may be hard to swallow for some users.
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Pure Encapsulations – Curcumin 500 With Bioperine
Pure Encapsulations’ Curcumin 500 with Bioperine® is formulated to offer potent antioxidant and cellular support. The supplement features Curcumin C3 Complex®, a patented extract standardized to contain 95% total curcuminoids. It also contains BioPerine® (a piperine extract from black pepper) that is also standardized to 95% piperine, which may help increase the absorption of curcumin.
The makers state that Curcumin 500 by Pure Encapsulations may support various biological systems, including the musculoskeletal, liver, colon, and cellular functions. Curcumin may help influence the metabolism of inflammatory compounds like cyclooxygenase, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes, which may contribute to joint comfort and tissue health.
Pure Encapsulations Curcumin 500 with Bioperine is said to be free from common allergens, including soy, gluten, dairy, and GMOs. The formula also includes ascorbyl palmitate (a fat-soluble form of vitamin C), which may function as an antioxidant stabilizer. The makers suggest starting with a daily intake of one capsule, which is to be taken 1-3 times daily between meals.
Pros
- Utilizes a patented Curcumin C3 Complex® to provide broad-spectrum benefits.
- Comes in two different bottles, with serving sizes of 60 and 120 capsules.
- May help support liver function and promote colon health.
Cons
- May trigger side effects like headaches, fatigue, and digestive discomfort.
- Could exacerbate gallbladder issues by stimulating contractions.
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Thorne – Curcumin Phytosome
According to its official site, one serving (two capsules) of Thorne Curcumin Phytosome provides 500mg of curcumin (in the form of phytosome), which pairs Curcuma longa root extract with phospholipids from sunflower oil. The formula, known as Meriva®, may offer greater absorption than standard curcumin supplements.
Typically, curcumin has a low absorption rate when taken through food or regular supplements, limiting its benefits. Thorne’s Curcumin Phytosome utilizes a special method called phytosome technology to attach curcumin to phospholipids (such as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine), offering better potency and absorption.
Curcumin Phytosome by Thorne may help support the body’s natural inflammatory response by balancing cytokine production. Such effects may aid in relief from occasional joint aches, stiffness, and muscle soreness. One bottle of Thorne Curcumin Phytosome provides 120 capsules and is available at a one-time purchase price of $47.
Pros
- Claims to provide 29 times greater absorption than standard curcumin extracts.
- May help ease muscle soreness and support post-exercise recovery.
- NSF certification ensures that the formula is free from banned substances.
- Could help support cognitive function and neurological health.
Cons
- May not be safe for users with pre-existing liver or gallbladder issues.
- Could trigger potential allergic reactions, such as itching or rashes.
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Nature Made – Turmeric Curcumin Capsules
Turmeric Curcumin capsules by Nature Made provide 500 mg of a turmeric blend per capsule, which contains a total of 47.5 mg of curcuminoids. The formulation aims to support your body’s natural antioxidant defenses, which may help support immunity and lower inflammation.
According to the official site, Nature Made Turmeric Curcumin capsules are USP-verified, ensuring that they meet stringent quality standards for potency and high purity and adhere to stringent manufacturing standards. The formulation is also gluten-free, with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making it compatible with multiple dietary restrictions.
Pros
- May help neutralize free radicals and offer antioxidant support.
- Comes in a compact bottle design, making it easy to store and carry.
- Encapsulated and quality tested in the USA under stringent standards.
Cons
- Does not include bioavailability enhancers like piperine (black pepper extract).
- Noticeable benefits from the formulation may take several weeks to manifest.
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Qunol – Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex
Qunol Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex contains 1000mg of a Bioenhanced Turmeric Complex, which is standardized to contain about 18–22% of curcuminoids per two-capsule serving. The supplement uses a water-dispersible technology to increase curcumin absorption, especially in comparison to standard curcumin supplements.
The makers state that Qunol Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex may support healthy joint function, muscle function, and cardiovascular health. The formulation may help decrease occasional joint discomfort and stiffness, supporting efficient post-workout recovery.
Pros
- Utilizes patented hydro-soluble technology to increase curcumin absorption.
- Might support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
- It is compatible with users following vegetarian or vegan lifestyles.
- Offers free shipping over US orders worth $25 or more.
Cons
- The capsules may leave a yellow residue on the hands.
- May trigger side effects like acid reflux and indigestion.
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Natural Factors – CurcuminRich Theracurmin
Natural Factors Theracurmin delivers a highly bioavailable form of curcumin, providing 30mg of Theracurcumin extract per capsule. The extract is made using special technology that aims to increase your body’s ability to absorb curcumin.
The makers state that Natural Factors Theracurmin may support a healthy inflammatory response (especially after exercise), which may help soothe muscle and joint discomfort. It might also promote cardiovascular health and offer antioxidant support.
As per the official website, one bottle of Natural Factors Theracurmin provides 120 vegetarian capsules and costs $54.95 as part of a one-time purchase.
Pros
- Features a highly bioavailable form of curcumin (Theracurcumin) for better absorption.
- Contains no added salt, which may be beneficial for those on salt-restrictive diets.
- Offers a vegan-friendly and non-GMO formula.
- Provides a 45-day satisfaction guarantee on orders.
Cons
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
- May take some months to notice results.
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Integrative Therapeutics – Theracurmin HP
Theracurmin HP by Integrative Therapeutics uses a patented colloidal dispersion technology, which creates a water-dispersible form of curcumin that boosts its bioavailability. As a result, you may experience more potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits from curcumin.
According to the official site, each serving (2 capsules) features 600mg of Theracurmin (derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa). The Integrative Therapeutics Theracurmin HP formula could help support the body’s natural cytokine and detoxification pathways, which may assist in minimizing toxin buildup and supporting a resilient immune system.
Pros
- Claims to provide 27 times greater bioavailability than regular curcumin extracts.
- Provides less than 1 gram of total carbohydrates per serving (two capsules).
- Comes with an inner seal to ensure safety and freshness.
Cons
- May cause hormonal imbalance, such as decreased DHT levels.
- Not safe for use for people with bile duct disorders or gallstones.
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Arg – CurcuWIN® 500
Arg’s CurcuWIN® provides a concentrated 500mg dose of turmeric root extract, standardized to contain at least 20% curcuminoids per capsule. The supplement utilizes an UltraSOL Nutrient Delivery System, which may enhance the bioavailability of curcuminoids.
The Arg brand claims that its CurcuWIN® 500 increases curcuminoid absorption by up to 46 times compared to standard curcumin extracts. It may ensure higher and longer-lasting levels of curcuminoids in the bloodstream, even 12 hours post-consumption.
Arg CurcuWIN® 500 may help support a healthy inflammation response, antioxidant defense, and cellular health. One bottle of Arg CurcuWIN® 500 provides 60 vegetarian capsules and costs $34.89 as part of a one-time purchase option.
Pros
- May support multiple body systems, including the gut, joints, heart, liver, and skin.
- Offers a 60-day refund policy on orders.
- Maintains transparency by providing clear ingredient listing and dosage information.
Cons
- Not safe for use during pregnancy or lactation.
- May trigger adverse reactions like cluster headaches or migraines.
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Puritan’s Pride – Turmeric Curcumin With Bioperine
According to its official site, Puritan’s Pride Turmeric Curcumin contains a total of 1,000 mg of turmeric content, including 900 mg of turmeric root and 100 mg of standardized turmeric extract (with 95% curcuminoids) per capsule. To further enhance curcumin absorption, the formula features 5 mg of BioPerine® black pepper extract.
The makers state that Puritan’s Pride Turmeric Curcumin could support healthy joint and muscle function, aid in cardiovascular health, and support better cognitive function. The formulation is also free from artificial preservatives/colors, and does not comprise allergens like wheat, yeast, lactose, soy, or sodium.
Pros
- Undergoes testing and inspection up to 15 times during manufacturing.
- Standardization to 95% curcuminoids maintains consistency and efficacy in every batch.
- Offers a 90-day refund policy on orders.
- May help support general health and promote a healthy immune system.
Cons
- May increase the risk of bleeding, particularly for people on blood thinners.
- Could interfere with iron absorption, potentially contributing to anemia.
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Garden of Life Organics – Extra Strength Turmeric
According to its official site, one tablet of Garden of Life Organics’ Extra Strength Turmeric features 553mg of an organic turmeric blend, which comprises turmeric root extract, which is standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids. The formulation also contains 50mg of fermented ginger root and 4mg of probiotics (Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14).
The inclusion of ginger root and probiotics alongside turmeric extract may provide digestive support, which could improve nutrient absorption and minimize bloating. Probiotics may further help support a healthy gut microbiome, which may contribute to better gut health.
As per the makers, Garden of Life Organics Extra Strength Turmeric maintains a commitment to clean, traceable ingredients. The formulation is Certified USDA Organic, non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free by NSF, and Certified Kosher.
Pros
- Includes probiotics and organic black pepper extract to support digestion.
- Provides 100mg of curcuminoids per tablet.
- Formulated without unnecessary additives, binders, or fillers.
- Non-GMO Project Verified to ensure quality and safety.
Cons
- May negatively interact with blood thinners, diabetes drugs, or liver medications.
- Might trigger side effects like bloating, diarrhea, or nausea.
Side Effects of Curcumin Supplements
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Increased Bleeding Risk
Curcumin supplements may raise the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or alongside blood-thinning agents. These supplements contain concentrated amounts of curcumin, which may interfere with the body’s natural blood clotting process.
Research suggests that curcumin suppresses the activity of coagulation factors like thrombin and activated factor X (FXa), which help form blood clots. The anticoagulant effect of curcumin supplements may decrease your blood’s ability to stop bleeding effectively.
The risk of bleeding becomes especially problematic if you’re already using blood-thinning medications like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. Pairing these blood thinners with curcumin supplements may lead to additive anticoagulant effects, increasing your likelihood of internal bleeding, frequent nosebleeds, or unusually heavy periods.
If you have a bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia, or a history of clotting abnormalities, curcumin supplements may further destabilize your already compromised clotting function. Overuse of curcumin supplements may lead to easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or delayed recovery from surgical wounds.
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Gallbladder Contraction
The curcumin supplements may function as choleretic agents, stimulating your gallbladder to squeeze and release bile (a fluid essential for digesting fats). While the bile release might support digestion, overstimulation may become a liability if you have any underlying gallbladder issues.
If you have gallstones, bile sludge, or a history of gallbladder disease, curcumin supplements may induce forceful contractions that might push stones into the bile ducts. It may trigger biliary colic, a condition marked by sharp and sudden abdominal pain, or lead to dangerous blockages.
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Increased Risk of Kidney Stone Formation
Curcumin supplements may raise your risk of developing kidney stones, as they contain highly concentrated doses of curcuminoids that may elevate oxalate levels. Oxalate is a naturally occurring compound that binds with calcium in the kidneys to develop calcium oxalate crystals.
Moreover, curcumin supplements may trigger a condition called hyperoxaluria, which refers to excessive oxalate excretion through urine. The process may increase the concentration of oxalate in the urinary tract, raising the risk of crystal nucleation and kidney stone formation.
How Did We Evaluate The Best Curcumin Supplements?
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Brand Credibility
When evaluating the best curcumin supplements, brand credibility was a vital factor we considered. To assess it, we looked closely at each brand’s ratings across review platforms like Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot. Except for Puritan’s Pride, the other nine brands in the list have no claimed profile on Trustpilot, so we emphasized more on the BBB ratings when ranking the brands.
Designs for Health received an “A+” rating on BBB, which may indicate that the brand maintains trustworthiness and quality customer service standards. It is followed closely by the Natural Factors brand, which also holds an “A+” rating on the BBB (Better Business Bureau) website.
Puritan’s Pride currently does not have a BBB rating and received a low 1.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot, based on 275+ reviews. Its low Trustpilot score may indicate a disconnect between formal complaint resolution and customer satisfaction across the Trustpilot platform.
The Pure Encapsulations brand holds an “A-” rating on BBB, particularly due to six complaints filed against the business.
Meanwhile, Garden of Life also has an “A-” rating on the BBB website, possibly due to nine complaints filed against the business. Thorne holds a “C+” rating on the BBB due to nine complaints filed against the venture.
However, brands like Nature Made, Qunol, Integrative Therapeutics, and Allergy Research Group lack a profile and remain unrated on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) platform. While this doesn’t necessarily indicate poor performance, it limits transparency regarding customer feedback and dispute resolution.
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Returns And Refund Policy
When assessing the best curcumin supplements, we gave weightage to each brand’s return and refund policy. A strong refund policy demonstrates a company’s commitment to user satisfaction and its confidence in the formulation. We looked at factors such as the duration of the return window, whether opened items were accepted, the presence of restocking fees, and the ease of the return process.
Puritan’s Pride led the pack with a generous 90-day return policy that accepts returns on both opened and unopened items, offering a risk-free trial. Following close behind were ARG and Thorne, both offering a 60-day refund window. ARG provides a full refund if returned within the timeframe and charges only a modest 15% fee beyond 60 days. Thorne’s return period is equally long but includes a steeper 25% restocking fee.
The Garden of Life brand also provided a 60-day refund policy, though returns require contacting customer service for an authorization number and some minor hassles. Natural Factors and Integrative Therapeutics brands offer a reasonable 45-day satisfaction guarantee, though Integrative Therapeutics requires approval and a Product Return Authorization Number, which could delay refund processing time.
Qunol and Pure Encapsulations restrict returns to unopened items only, and both deduct processing or shipping fees and provide a 30-day refund window. However, the Pure Encapsulations brand requires taking multiple steps and involves a slightly complex refund request process.
Designs for Health offers a short 30-day policy combined with a 20% restocking fee and buyer-covered return shipping, further limited by the exclusion of return on private label and heat-sensitive products.
The Nature Made brand offers the most restrictive refund policy on the list, as only the first bottle of a product bought directly from their website is eligible for return within 30 days, and it excludes subscription orders or address errors. The rigid structure significantly reduces the flexibility consumers often seek.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are All Curcumin Supplements Equally Effective?
No, the bioavailability of curcumin supplements varies. Some curcumin supplements utilize special technology (like nanoparticles or liposomes) to increase curcumin bioavailability, while other supplements use ingredients like black pepper extract to improve curcumin absorption. - How Do Curcumin Supplements Differ From Regular Turmeric Powder?
Curcumin supplements are concentrated extracts containing high levels of curcumin, which is the primary compound in turmeric. Regular turmeric powder is made from the whole root and may contain only about 2–9% curcumin. It means curcumin supplements deliver much more of the active compound per dose than turmeric powder. - Can Curcumin Supplements Support Heart Health?
Curcumin supplements may support heart health by reducing blood pressure, improving antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status, and stabilizing cholesterol levels. They might also help improve blood vessel function and lower the risk of heart disease.
Conclusion
Curcumin supplements may help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, strengthen your immune function, and provide antioxidant support. Supplementing curcumin may help you get a concentrated and consistent amount of beneficial curcuminoids, especially if it’s hard to get enough from food alone.
Taking curcumin supplements may also help support joint function, promote cardiovascular health, and support cognitive performance. They may also function as potent antioxidants, which means they could help protect your bodily cells from damage caused by free radicals.
However, curcumin supplements may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly if you’re taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder. They may also cause problems if you have pre-existing gallbladder issues by triggering strong contractions, which might lead to pain or complications like bile duct blockages. In some cases, curcumin supplements may also raise the risk of developing kidney stones by elevating your oxalate levels.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
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