Curcumin dietary supplements containing curcumin root extract are another form of curcumin intake. Supplement labels will indicate different percentages of curcumin extract. Independent quality control and quality assurance laboratories test and inspect the product to verify these claims and endorse the label as directed by the manufacturer of the product. Some curcumin dietary supplement formulations may also contain other extracts, such as black pepper extract (piperine) or proprietary mixtures containing vegetable gums, or other lipid preparations, in an attempt to improve the bioavailability of curcumin. In particular, research has shown that curcumin can be used as a topical agent in formulations of collagen films, lotions, sponges and bandages to promote healthy skin.

When substituting, use common sense. Cayenne pepper is as much as 50 times hotter than sweet paprika, so a 1:1 substitution wouldn't work unless you want some heat—the right substitution, in this case, would be 1/3 of a teaspoon of cayenne per 1 teaspoon of paprika. Make an informed decision, but also use thorough recipes that might suggest reasonable substitutions.

WHAT IT'S MADE OF

It's important to note that while turmeric offers potential medicinal uses, individual responses may vary, and it should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment. Incorporating turmeric into a balanced diet and consulting with a healthcare professional can help individuals make informed decisions about its use for medicinal purposes.