New Research Links Turmeric & Green Tea to Liver Damage

The growing popularity of herbal supplements like turmeric and green tea has raised concerns about their potential health risks. 

Study shows that around 15.6 million U.S. adults have used at least one of six botanicals linked to liver damage. Among them, turmeric and green tea are the most common. These supplements, often taken without medical supervision, have been associated with liver injury.¹ 

Potential Dangers of Popular Supplements

The study’s researchers from the University of Michigan analyzed data from 2017 to 2021 involving 9,685 people. They found that 4.7% of U.S. adults had used one of six potentially harmful supplements in the past 30 days. 

These include turmeric, green tea extract, ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, black cohosh, and red yeast rice. Most people took these supplements on their own, without medical advice, to address issues like joint pain, weight loss, and heart health.

Importantly, the study focused on green tea extract, not regular green tea.

Rising Concerns Over Supplement Overdose

While reports of liver toxicity linked to supplements have been increasing, medical researchers are still concerned that many people are unaware of the serious risk of overdose. 

A 2022 study showed how emergency room visits due to supplements like turmeric and green tea extract have grown, with hospitalizations rising from 7% to 20% between 2004 and 2014.

Dr. Alisa Likhitsup, leading the study, noted that these supplements are responsible for an increasing number of liver damage cases. (ref)

Understanding Liver Toxicity from Supplements

Drug-induced liver toxicity, also known as toxic liver disease, can cause symptoms like yellowing skin, nausea, fatigue, and pain. If untreated, it can lead to severe outcomes, including liver transplants or death. (ref) 

Although hospitalizations from supplement misuse are rising, researchers aren’t advocating for complete avoidance. Instead, they urge users to carefully monitor ingredients and dosages, particularly when combining supplements or taking other medications for chronic conditions.

Staying aware can help prevent serious health risks.

Weak Regulation & Uncertain Benefits of Supplements

Unlike prescription medicines, herbal supplements are not strictly regulated. Chemical testing has shown that the actual doses in these products often don’t match what’s on the label. 

Furthermore, clinical trials have not consistently proven the benefits of these supplements, especially when taken in high doses. Safe usage varies depending on factors like prescription medications, liver health, and other medical conditions.

With their unregulated status, it’s best to be aware of the likely effects and consult healthcare professionals before use.

Turmeric Warning from Australian Health Authorities

In 2023, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) issued a warning about the risk of liver damage from consuming turmeric and curcumin supplements. Although serious injury is rare, the risk depends on factors like how well a person’s body absorbs the supplement and their liver health. 

The good news is that consuming turmeric in regular food amounts, like in cooking, does not pose a liver injury risk according to the TGA, reassuring those who enjoy the spice in their meals. (ref)

While turmeric and green tea are popular for their health benefits, misuse of these supplements can lead to serious health issues and even hospital visits. Use them responsibly and in moderation.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your health needs.

Source: 

1. JAMA Network Open