Although curcumin - the main active ingredient in turmeric has many biological benefits, abuse or misuse can also have adverse effects on the liver and digestive system.
Curcumin is known as a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin can support improving liver enzymes, reducing inflammation and reducing fat accumulation in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD).
However, it is important that this benefit is mainly recorded in appropriate doses and in controlled studies.
The LiverTox database of the National Institutes of Health (USA) updated in 2025 said that it has recorded many cases of hepatitis due to the use of turmeric or high-dose curcumin.
Therefore, the first advice for people who drink fresh turmeric juice regularly is not to consider this a drink "the more the better".
With fresh turmeric used in food processing or in regular drinking water, a moderate amount is often considered much safer than concentrated forms of essence.
Users also need to distinguish between natural fresh turmeric and high-dose curcumin tablets. According to experts, the risk of liver damage is often more related to high-dose supplements or products of unknown origin.
Another important note is not to drink fresh turmeric when too hungry for a long time. Turmeric has the ability to stimulate bile and gastric juice secretion, so in some people it can cause indigestion, burning stomach or digestive discomfort if used continuously in the early morning without adequate eating and drinking.
People with liver diseases, gallstones, blood clotting disorders or taking anticoagulants need to be especially careful. Curcumin has the ability to interact with some drugs, affecting drug metabolism in the liver.
You should consult a doctor if you are undergoing chronic disease treatment but still want to use turmeric regularly.
Turmeric should be used as part of a balanced diet instead of completely relying on turmeric juice. Fresh turmeric can be combined with honey, ginger or vegetable milk in moderation, using 3-4 times a week instead of drinking too much each day.
