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Research Highlights Potential Risks of High-Dose Spice Supplements on Drug Interactions

Preliminary studies suggest compounds in cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger may interfere with medication metabolism, prompting calls for further research and patient guidance.

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spices on a shelf

Overview

  • University of Mississippi research indicates cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon may accelerate drug clearance, potentially reducing medication effectiveness.
  • Cassia cinnamon, commonly found in supermarkets, contains high levels of coumarin, which can act as a blood thinner and pose risks when combined with anticoagulants like warfarin.
  • Turmeric's curcumin may interfere with liver enzymes, altering drug metabolism, and its blood-thinning properties could amplify the effects of medications such as warfarin and insulin.
  • Gingerol in ginger has mild anticoagulant effects, raising concerns about bleeding risks when combined with blood-thinning drugs.
  • Experts stress that typical culinary use of these spices is safe, with risks primarily associated with high-dose supplements, and recommend consulting healthcare providers for those on medications.