Medications · Supplements
Turmeric / Curcumin Before Surgery
Turmeric supplements are hugely popular for joint and general health — but concentrated curcumin thins the blood, so the capsules (not the curry) are worth pausing before surgery.
The short answer
Why turmeric supplements matter before surgery
Curcumin — the active ingredient in turmeric — can make platelets less sticky in concentrated supplement doses, which may increase bleeding during surgery. This is about the high-strength capsules and extracts, not the pinch of turmeric in your cooking.
When to stop
About 1–2 weeks before is the usual cautious window, and a bit longer if you may have a spinal or epidural. Keep enjoying turmeric in food; just pause the supplement when your team advises.
Frequently asked questions
How long before surgery should I stop turmeric?
High-dose turmeric or curcumin supplements are usually stopped about 1–2 weeks before surgery, as curcumin can reduce the blood's ability to clot. Confirm the timing with your team.
Can I still eat turmeric in food before surgery?
Yes — turmeric used as a spice in cooking is fine and isn't the concern. It's the concentrated curcumin supplements (capsules and high-strength extracts) that are paused before surgery.
Why is turmeric a blood thinner?
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can reduce platelet stickiness in supplement doses, which may add to bleeding during surgery — particularly alongside other blood-thinning supplements. The amount in food is far too small to matter.