Is Turmeric Safe During Pregnancy?

Turmeric, a well-known ancient spice originated in India, offers numerous health benefits. From being anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory to having anti-cancer properties, the value of turmeric is undeniable. But is turmeric safe during pregnancy? Read on to know more.

Turmeric Consumption During Pregnancy

While turmeric is generally considered safe when used in moderation in cooking, pregnant women should exercise caution with turmeric supplements or high-dose turmeric consumption. This is because turmeric content a compound called curcumin, which may have potential blood thinning properties. Taking large amounts of curcumin during pregnancy may alter levels of the hormone estrogen in the body, which can cause uterine contractions or bleeding. These effects could be enough to trigger pregnancy loss or early labor.

No clinical trials exist regarding the safety of turmeric or curcumin for pregnant people. Due to ethical conflicts in conducting human studies on pregnant people, only animal models have been used to evaluate turmeric in pregnancy. As per studies, turmeric has following effects in early pregnancy, when consumed in high doses:

Decreased implantation rate

Lethal to embryos at the blastocyst stage

Reduced rates of fertilization and embryonic development

The Benefits of Turmeric During Pregnancy

There's limited human research on turmeric during pregnancy, so we have inadequate knowledge of its potential benefits. Researchers are eager to explore its potential for addressing specific pregnancy complications.

Based on beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-hypertensive, and anti-diabetic, experts feel it may offer treatment for the following

• Gestational diabetes

• Preeclampsia

• Depression

• Preterm birth

• Fetal growth disorders

• Offset damage from natural and chemical toxic agents

• Ease pregnancy swelling and inflammation

• Relieve joint and back pain

• Soothing and supportive for the digestive tract and can prevent constipation

• Boost the immune system to combat colds or allergies

• Balance blood sugar levels and help prevent pregnancy-related depression

The Drawbacks of Turmeric During Pregnancy

As there's a lack of human studies on the impact of turmeric during pregnancy, the full extent of the risks is not clear. However, animal studies have uncovered notable risks linked to elevated doses in early pregnancy, including:

• reduced fertilisation rates

• implantation failure 

• embryonic death 

Additionally, high turmeric doses, surpassing typical dietary amounts, may potentially interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and acid blockers. A 2017 review indicates that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, might affect the behaviour of certain drugs in the body, such as:

• Medications for heart health

• Drugs for treating depression

• Blood-thinning medications

• Anti-bacterial drugs

• Medications used in cancer treatment

• Allergy medications

Tips For Using Turmeric During Pregnancy

According to healthcare professionals, you can use turmeric by adding it to a warm glass of milk, stir and drink it. Another way is by sprinkling it on food like eggs or adding a pinch in smoothies. The best way of adding turmeric is by putting a bit of this spice into Indian cuisine while sauteing or tempering it with vegetables or other spices.