Q: What does this product do?
A: This formula provides antioxidant for the maintenance of good health. It is used in Herbal Medicine to help relieve joint inflammation. These are the Health Canada approved uses (NPN 80040403). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Q: What does "standardized to 95% curcuminoids" mean?
A: Curcuminoids are the group of active pigment compounds in turmeric that give it its yellow color. There are three main curcuminoids: curcumin (the most abundant, approximately 75 to 80% of total curcuminoids), demethoxycurcumin (approximately 15 to 20%), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (approximately 3 to 5%). Standardized to 95% curcuminoids means that 95% of the extract by weight is these three curcuminoids combined. Raw turmeric root contains only 2 to 5% curcuminoids, so a 95% standardized extract is approximately 19 to 47 times more concentrated than raw turmeric root. Standardization ensures a consistent and reliable amount of curcuminoids in every capsule.
Q: Why does this formula not contain piperine?
A: Piperine (from black pepper) enhances curcumin absorption but also inhibits enzymes (particularly CYP3A4) that metabolize many medications and natural health products. This means piperine can increase the blood levels of other drugs you are taking, which may alter their effectiveness. This piperine-free formula is designed for people who want curcumin without the drug interaction risk associated with piperine. If you are not taking medications that interact with piperine, the Curcumin with Piperine formula (NPN 80068970) provides enhanced absorption.
Q: What is the difference between this product and the Curcumin with Piperine formula?
A: Both formulas provide 400mg of curcumin per capsule from Curcuma longa root. The key differences are: this formula (NPN 80040403) contains no piperine and has two Health Canada approved uses (antioxidant and joint inflammation). The Curcumin with Piperine formula (NPN 80068970) contains 4mg of piperine per capsule for enhanced absorption and has one Health Canada approved use (joint inflammation). If you are taking medications that interact with piperine, choose this piperine-free formula. Consult your healthcare provider to determine which is appropriate for you.
Q: How do I take this product?
A: Adults: 1 capsule, 3 times per day. Each bottle contains 60 capsules, a 20 day supply at 3 capsules per day.
Q: Why is there a caution for gallstones and bile duct obstruction?
A: Curcumin stimulates bile production and bile flow from the gallbladder. In people with gallstones or bile duct obstruction, increased bile flow can cause pain or complications. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.
Q: Why is there a caution for stomach ulcers and excess stomach acid?
A: Curcumin can stimulate gastric acid secretion. In people with existing stomach ulcers or excess stomach acid (hyperacidity), this could worsen symptoms. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have stomach ulcers or excess stomach acid.
Q: Why is there a caution for antiplatelet medication and blood thinners?
A: Curcumin itself has mild antiplatelet activity (it can reduce the tendency of blood platelets to clump together). When combined with antiplatelet medications or blood thinners, this effect may be additive. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking antiplatelet medication or blood thinners.
Q: Is this product suitable for vegans?
A: Yes. The capsule shell is made from hypromellose, a plant-derived cellulose (no gelatin). This product is also non-GMO, gluten free, soy free, and dairy free.
Q: What are the full safety cautions for this product?
A: Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking antiplatelet medication or blood thinners. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have stomach ulcers or excess stomach acid. Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Note: verify the duration of use from your Health Canada NPN 80040403 licence and add to this answer before publishing.
