A Dynamic Duo–Turmeric and Black Pepper

Curcumin, when taken alone, has poor bioavailability—however, when combined with the alkaloid helper piperine, it becomes a powerhouse for healing.

Turmeric root and black pepper combination enhances bioavailability of cucurmin absorption. ThamKC/Shutterstock

As a universal “remedy go-to,” turmeric is extremely popular. People talk about it, cook with it, or take supplements filled with the bright yellow powder. Although turmeric has proven to be safe even when ingested in high dosages (12 grams per day), it comes with a caveat that many might not be aware of.

The rhizome of this native Asian plant contains the polyphenolic compound curcumin, which has a seemingly endless list of beneficial properties. Unfortunately, turmeric displays poor bioavailability—meaning that its health-promoting components cannot get to their necessary destination easily because regular digestion breaks them down and eliminates them quickly.

Turmeric’s Bioavailability Problem

A review published in Molecular Pharmaceutics lists “rapid metabolism“ and ”rapid systemic elimination” as two causes, in addition to poor absorption, that might hinder turmeric reaching its full healing potential in our bodies.