Three popular spices used every day in a variety of foods - from sweets to curries - could render life-saving drugs ineffective, a medical expert has warned.
Cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger — which are known to naturally reduce inflammation and boost immunity — may affect how the body processes medications, including those for high blood pressure, diabetes, and common infections.
A recent study found that cinnamon's main ingredient, cinnamaldehyde, which gives the spice its characteristic aroma and flavor, activates receptors that cause the body to process drugs more quickly, thus reducing their effectiveness.
According to scientist Shabana Khan, those who simply sprinkle cinnamon on their morning oatmeal are safe, but those who take cinnamon supplements may be at risk.
"Excessive consumption can cause the drug to be eliminated from the body too quickly, making it less effective," she explained. – reports GazetaExpress.
For some medications – such as blood thinners – the accelerated metabolism caused by cinnamon may increase the risk of dangerous bleeding, according to Professor Dipa Kamdar, a pharmacist at Kingston University.
She added that the type of cinnamon also matters.
"True cinnamon," which comes from Sri Lanka, has many health benefits, including antioxidants and helping to regulate blood sugar.
While cinnamon bark, common in supermarkets, contains high levels of coumarin, which can damage the liver in high doses.
Research also suggests that cinnamon may interact with other medications like statins or antidepressants, making them less or more effective.
🟡 Turmeric – linked to liver failure
Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is found in supplements, "immune booster" juices, and hot foods. But its active ingredient – curcumin – affects liver enzymes, which are responsible for processing drugs.
“This can lead to interactions with antidepressants, blood pressure medications, chemotherapy and antibiotics,” said Prof. Kamdar.
In high doses, especially when consumed with black pepper (which aids absorption), curcumin has been linked to severe liver damage.
A study in The American Journal of Medicine identified 10 cases of liver damage from turmeric between 2004 and 2022.
5 people were hospitalized
A 1-year-old woman died of acute liver failure after taking turmeric root extract daily for 62 months for arthritis.
She was also taking tramadol, decongestants for allergies and other supplements, including ginger and vitamin D. After experiencing fatigue, nausea and jaundice, she was listed for a transplant but died within five weeks.
🟠 Ginger – potentially dangerous interactions
Ginger, used to help with nausea and for its anti-inflammatory properties, can interact with medications, especially in high doses.
It can lower blood sugar levels, increasing the effect of diabetes medications and the risk of fatal hypoglycemia.
It acts as a mild blood thinner, affecting those taking anticoagulants.
“If you are taking medication – especially blood thinners, diabetes medication, or chemotherapy – consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking herbal supplements,” warns Dr. Kamdar.
✅ Moderate use is safe
For most people, regular use in cooking is safe. But using supplements in high doses is where the real risk lies.
According to the NHS:
Around 350,000 people take blood thinners each year in England.
With the expansion of their use to prevent strokes, millions of citizens could be at risk if they combine these drugs with unstable herbal supplements.
“Sprinkle it, add a pinch or a teaspoon – but be careful what you have in your medicine cabinet.” /Express newspaper/
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