Does Turmeric Lower Blood Pressure? A Comprehensive Review
Originally published March 25, 2025. Last updated October 4, 2026.
Some research suggests small average reductions in blood pressure with turmeric or curcumin supplements, but they are not established replacements for hypertension treatment. A supplement cannot be relied on to control your blood pressure or prevent a stroke.
What do the studies show?
A systematic review published in 2024 pooled randomized trials and reported average reductions of about 2.0 mmHg in systolic pressure and 0.8 mmHg in diastolic pressure with turmeric or curcumin supplementation. These are pooled averages, not a prediction of what one person or one commercial product will achieve. [1]
Study preparations, doses, participants, and treatment durations vary. A measurable change in a study does not establish that a supplement can replace prescribed medication or prevent cardiovascular events. NCCIH concludes that there is not enough evidence to make definitive statements about turmeric or curcumin for health purposes. [2]
Why inflammation does not settle the question
Scientists investigate inflammation and blood-vessel function to understand cardiovascular disease. However, identifying a biological mechanism is different from showing that a treatment safely lowers blood pressure in people. Laboratory findings and changes in an inflammation marker are not proof of fewer heart attacks or strokes.
What should you do if your blood pressure is high?
Work with your healthcare provider on a plan based on your readings and overall health. Proven approaches include a heart-healthy eating pattern such as DASH, reducing sodium, appropriate physical activity, and medication when needed. Continue your prescribed treatment and monitoring even if you decide to discuss a supplement. [3]
Do not reduce or stop a blood-pressure medicine because you have started turmeric. Bring the complete supplement label to your pharmacist or clinician so they can check the ingredients against your medicines and conditions.
Turmeric in food versus supplements
Cooking with turmeric is different from taking a concentrated extract. Supplement formulations differ, and some contain piperine or other ingredients to increase absorption. Higher absorption does not automatically mean greater benefit or safety. NCCIH warns that highly bioavailable formulations may harm the liver. Oral turmeric can also cause digestive problems, including reflux, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. [2]
Stop the supplement and contact a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms such as dark urine, jaundice, persistent nausea, or unusual fatigue. Discuss supplement use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or treatment with medication before taking it.
Sources
- Dehzad and colleagues: Systematic review of turmeric/curcumin and blood pressure
- NCCIH: Turmeric—Usefulness and Safety
- NHLBI: High Blood Pressure Treatment
Update note: Added newer pooled research, clarified the limits of the findings, and revised treatment and safety advice. This article is educational and does not replace medical care.
