Q: What does this product do?
A: This formula is used in Herbal Medicine to help relieve joint inflammation. That is the Health Canada approved use (NPN 80068970). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Q: How long can I use this product?
A: For use beyond 12 weeks, consult a health care practitioner.
Q: What is curcumin and where does it come from?
A: Curcumin is the primary active compound in turmeric (Curcuma longa), the yellow-orange spice widely used in South Asian cooking. It is found in the rhizome (underground stem) of the turmeric plant. Curcuma longa is a member of the ginger family, native to South and Southeast Asia. Curcumin is what gives turmeric its characteristic yellow color. This formula provides 400mg of curcumin per capsule from Curcuma longa rhizome.
Q: Why is piperine added and what does it do?
A: Curcumin on its own is poorly absorbed from the digestive tract. It is broken down quickly by enzymes in the gut and liver before much of it can reach the bloodstream. Piperine, the active compound in black pepper (Piper nigrum), inhibits these enzymes, slowing the breakdown of curcumin and allowing more of it to be absorbed. This formula provides 4mg of piperine per capsule from 80mg of black pepper extract (Piper nigrum, fruit, 2:1 extract, QCE 160mg).
Q: What does 2:1 extract and QCE 160mg mean for the black pepper?
A: A 2:1 extract ratio means 2 parts of raw black pepper fruit are used to produce 1 part of extract. So 80mg of this extract is equivalent to 160mg of raw black pepper fruit. QCE (Quantity of Crude Equivalent) is the Health Canada standard way of expressing how much raw herb a given extract is equivalent to. The extract is standardized to provide 4mg of piperine per capsule.
Q: Why does piperine affect other medications?
A: Piperine inhibits the same enzymes (particularly CYP3A4) and transporters that break down many medications and natural health products. By slowing these pathways, piperine can increase the blood levels of other medications you are taking, which may alter their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. This is why it is important to consult a health care practitioner before use if you are taking antiplatelet medication, blood thinners, or any other medications or natural health products.
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. This is why the caution to consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have gallstones or bile duct obstruction applies to this product.
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: 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, and dairy free.
Q: What are the full safety cautions for this product?
A: For use beyond 12 weeks, consult a health care practitioner. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking antiplatelet medication or blood thinners, or if you are taking any other medications or natural health products, as black pepper/piperine may alter their effectiveness. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have gallstones, bile duct obstruction, 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.
