Turmeric, Curcumin and BioPerine®: How to Read a Turmeric Label

Turmeric labels often list three ingredients that sound alike: turmeric root, turmeric extract standardized to curcuminoids, and black pepper extract. Each one tells you something different about what is in the capsule.

1. Turmeric root powder

This is the ground spice itself. Whole turmeric root contains curcuminoids, the yellow compounds most turmeric research focuses on, but only in small amounts. Published analyses commonly put the curcuminoid content of turmeric root at only a few percent by weight, so a large milligram number of root powder does not mean a large amount of curcuminoids.

2. Extract “standardized to 95% curcuminoids”

A standardized extract is concentrated so that a stated share of its weight is curcuminoids. Fifty milligrams of an extract standardized to 95% curcuminoids contains about 47.5 mg of curcuminoids. When you compare turmeric products, this line usually tells you more than the root powder line does.

3. BioPerine® (black pepper extract)

BioPerine® is a branded black pepper fruit extract that supplies piperine. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) notes that piperine is used to improve how well the body absorbs curcumin, while more research is needed on how that affects curcumin’s effects.

Read “per capsule” vs. “per serving”

Some turmeric labels list amounts per capsule; others list them per serving of two or more capsules. Check which one applies, then follow the directions on the label for how many capsules to take.

What the evidence does and doesn’t say

NCCIH states that there is not yet enough evidence to conclude definitively whether turmeric or curcumin is beneficial for any health purpose. Treat bold promises on any turmeric label with caution and focus on what the Supplement Facts panel actually lists.

Safety notes worth knowing

• NCCIH describes conventionally formulated oral turmeric products as likely safe in recommended amounts for up to 2–3 months, but liver injury has been reported, including with formulations designed for higher absorption. Stop use and contact a healthcare provider if you notice fatigue, dark urine or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Possible side effects include nausea, acid reflux, stomach upset, diarrhea or constipation.
• Turmeric supplements may be unsafe during pregnancy.
• Talk to a healthcare professional before use if you take medication, including blood thinners.

An example: TerraGold™

TerraGold™ Organic Turmeric Curcumin + BioPerine® lists, per capsule, 600 mg organic turmeric root, 50 mg turmeric extract standardized to 95% curcuminoids and 5 mg BioPerine®, with 60 capsules per bottle. The turmeric root is labeled organic; the separate extract is listed by its curcuminoid standardization. Take it according to the directions on the product label.

For quality documentation, visit our Certificate of Analysis section.

See the full TerraGold™ label and details.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.