The safe daily intake of turmeric varies depending on the form and purpose. Generally, studies show turmeric doses ranging from 500 to 2,000 mg per day as beneficial, often in extract form with high curcumin content. The World Health Organization (WHO) states an acceptable daily intake of curcumin as 1.4 mg per pound (3 mg per kilogram) of body weight. For example, for a 150-pound individual, the safe intake would be about 210 mg of curcumin daily. Some experts recommend 500 to 1,000 mg of turmeric daily for general use, while doses as high as 8 grams per day have been considered safe for short-term use (up to two months). Higher doses are not recommended for long-term use due to limited safety data. Turmeric supplements are often taken with food and sometimes with healthy fats to enhance absorption. In summary:
- Typical beneficial dose: 500–2,000 mg turmeric daily (often as curcumin extract)
- WHO acceptable daily intake: 1.4 mg per pound body weight of curcumin
- Safe short-term use up to 8 grams turmeric daily reported
- Long-term high dose safety not well established
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting turmeric supplements, especially in high doses or for medical conditions.
