Evidence supporting the use of: Turmeric
For the body system: Gall Bladder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine to support digestive health, including the liver and gall bladder. Modern research has provided some scientific validation for these uses, particularly regarding turmeric’s active compound, curcumin. Curcumin has been shown to stimulate bile production in the liver and promote its excretion, which can be beneficial for gall bladder function and the emulsification of dietary fats. Several animal and in vitro studies suggest that curcumin may help prevent the formation of gallstones by reducing cholesterol saturation in bile and promoting gall bladder motility. For example, a study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology (2011) found that curcumin increased bile flow and reduced cholesterol levels in the bile of rats.

However, high-quality human studies are limited. Small clinical trials have reported improvements in dyspeptic symptoms with turmeric supplementation, but direct evidence for prevention or treatment of gall bladder disease in humans is lacking. Turmeric is generally considered safe when used in culinary amounts, but high doses may aggravate gall bladder problems in individuals with existing gallstones or bile duct obstruction.

In summary, while there is a traditional basis for turmeric’s use in supporting gall bladder health, and some preliminary scientific evidence supports increased bile production and possible gallstone prevention, definitive clinical validation in humans is still limited. The overall strength of evidence is moderate (rated 3 out of 5).

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