DIY Turmeric Bomb Supplements

Turmeric is something you'll always find in my kitchen (and medicine cabinet). Known for its bright yellow color, Turmeric root has many health benefits. It also doesn't taste the best on its own. These big bombs are a delicious way to get your daily turmeric supplement!

Benefits of Turmeric

So why is turmeric so amazing? This rhizome has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and is native to the culture of Southeast Asia, specifically India. Its bright yellow color comes from its curcuminoids, some of which are extracted for curcumin supplements.

There are over 7,000 clinical studies on the effects of turmeric and over 20,000 on its main active ingredient, curcumin extract.

Researchers have studied its impacts on blood sugar, cholesterol balance, heart health and other health issues. Turmeric extract dietary supplements have shown promise for blood pressure, heart disease, and overall heart health.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant

It is a powerful antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress and free radicals to protect our cells. Turmeric is probably best known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Health care providers recommend it for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and muscle pain. So instead of taking ibuprofen, try turmeric first! And because it is anti-inflammatory, it can help fight ulcerative colitis and Alzheimer's disease. A 2021 study found that curcumin reduced brain plaques and prevented brain cell death.

Turmeric supplements

Although there are numerous clinical trials and thousands of years of evidence behind turmeric, not all turmeric is the same. A 2023 study found that spices from India (notably turmeric) contained more than three times the amount of lead found in American spices. Although some turmeric is contaminated, other formulations add fillers and other waste.

You can find turmeric curcumin capsules, gummies, and turmeric pills. I generally prefer to get my own turmeric powder that has been third-party tested for lead. I will use it in smoothies, coffee and homemade curry powder. Unlike curcumin supplements, you get all the benefits of turmeric.

A quick note on side effects. High doses of curcumin could interfere with blood thinners, such as warfarin. If you are taking blood thinners or are scheduled for surgery, consult your doctor before using turmeric supplements.

DIY Turmeric Supplement

I regularly add turmeric to my food, but these DIY turmeric bombs give you a more concentrated amount. They're perfect for when you need an anti-inflammatory supplement. And they taste way better than trying to drink turmeric powder mixed with water (talk about bitter!).

Make it even better

Certain ingredients increase the bioavailability of curcumin and turmeric. This means our bodies are able to get more out of it and experience more health benefits. The following help boost the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric.

Quercetina bioflavonoid, inhibits an enzyme that decreases the activity of curcumin.
Black pepper contains the powerful alkaloid piperine. Black pepper extract can increase the bioavailability of curcumin by up to 2,000%.
Fatty acids (as coconut oil) also significantly increase bioavailability.

I add the above ingredients to turmeric, honey and spices for a delicious and more effective supplement.

How to make turmeric bombs

The honey helps bind the turmeric powder and mask the bitter taste. Coconut oil makes it creamy and rich. These are meant to be small, about the size of a quarter. Eating too much coconut oil at once could cause an upset stomach (and a toilet leak!).

Be careful mixing them, as turmeric stains clothes and can stain skin. Although, oddly enough, in reality whitens teeth!