Recently, there’s been some concern in the media and online about turmeric supplements and their possible effects on liver health. As a brand that creates turmeric-based supplements, we want to address this openly and honestly and explain how TURMERIC [blend] is formulated with your wellbeing in mind & help educate you in the risk factors and what to look out for.
What’s Behind the Concern?
There have been reports that have linked curcumin supplementation to liver injury, prompting understandable concern. So, let’s put the headlines into context:
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These cases are extremely rare, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 10,000 to 100,000 users.
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Many involved very high doses of curcumin extract - often far exceeding typical daily intakes.
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Most were formulated using aggressive bioavailability enhancers (like concentrated piperine or oils) designed to maximise curcumin uptake — often paired with little or no whole turmeric.
It’s this combination, high-dose extract, boosted absorption, and sometimes an underlying genetic sensitivity, that appears to have contributed to the rare liver injury cases reported.
So what triggered the recent wave of worry?
In early 2023, the American Journal of Medicine published a case series from the U.S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN), reviewing turmeric-related liver injury cases between 2011 and 2022. Among the 10 confirmed cases, six occurred since 2017, prompting renewed attention to the safety of turmeric supplements — especially those using high-dose or concentrated extracts.
Understandably, that might raise eyebrows, especially as TURMERIC [blend] includes black pepper and MCT oil to support absorption. So what makes our product different?
A Balanced, Whole-Root Approach
The difference lies in the quantities and the overall formulation.
At Nature Squared, we combine:
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Organic turmeric root – offering the full spectrum of compounds, not just curcumin
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A modest amount of 95% curcumin extract – to boost potency, but nowhere near the megadoses used in some supplements
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Organic black pepper – at a carefully considered and gentle, effective level to naturally support absorption
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MCT (from coconut oil) – a fat-based carrier to help the body process fat-soluble curcumin
This thoughtful combination delivers effectiveness without excess. Rather than relying on megadoses of curcumin extract and over-amplifying absorption, our blend works in harmony with the body, mirroring how turmeric is traditionally consumed - as a spice, with food, and in balance with natural fats and other plant compounds.
Many of the case reports involved supplements providing 1,000–2,000 mg of concentrated curcumin extract per day — dramatically more than what’s found in our carefully formulated capsules.
The Genetic Factor: HLA-B*35:01
One of the most significant findings in recent research is the role of genetic predisposition. Specifically, around 70% of reported liver injury cases involved individuals who carry a gene known as HLA-B*35:01. This suggests that in these rare cases, the liver injury is likely immune-mediated, not caused by toxicity in the usual sense.
In other words, turmeric and curcumin are not inherently dangerous — but a very small percentage of people may be more sensitive due to their genetic makeup. For the vast majority, turmeric remains a safe and effective supplement when used appropriately.
What Should You Watch Out For?
While the risk is exceptionally low, it’s always wise to be aware of how your body responds to any supplement. If you ever experience:
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Fatigue or nausea
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
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Dark urine or pale stools
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Upper abdominal discomfort
...it’s important to stop supplementation and seek medical advice.
You should also speak to your healthcare provider before taking turmeric supplements if you:
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Have an existing liver condition
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Take medications processed by the liver
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Our Commitment to Responsible Supplementation
At Nature Squared, we don’t chase trends or megadoses. We formulate our products to deliver natural, science-backed benefits — with a focus on safety, efficacy, and respect for how the body works.
That’s why our TURMERIC [blend] includes both the whole turmeric root and a moderate amount of curcumin extract, enhanced with natural absorption aids like organic black pepper and MCTs from coconut oil — and nothing unnecessary.
We’ll continue to monitor the research and remain fully transparent about our ingredients. If you’ve been concerned by recent stories or social media commentary, we hope this post brings clarity and confidence.
Feel better naturally.
– The Nature Squared Team