Turmeric, the bright yellow Asian spice often used in curries, has gained quite a reputation as a superfood. It’s been touted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and known as a natural defense against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

There are so many reasons to include the “golden spice” in your daily diet. But according to Dr. Atli Arnarson, its most famous compound doesn’t live up to its hype.

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He accepts that “Supplements of turmeric, or curcumin — its main active ingredient — are becoming increasingly common.”

“However, some people are concerned about the possible side effects of high-dose turmeric and curcumin supplements.

“There are no official recommendations for the intake of turmeric, and the maximum tolerable intake level has not been identified.

“However, as a general rule, you should not exceed the dosage recommendations you find on supplement labels.”

Turmeric has been used in Indian and Chinese cooking (and traditional medicine) for centuries. It works as natural medicine.

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But excessive consumption of food or take any food may cause harm to our body system.

According to the expert, some people may develop nausea and diarrhoea, while others may have dizziness or stomach pain.

The spice does, however, contain oxalate – an organic acid – that’s been linked to kidney stones.

Only predisposed individuals are at risk of kidney stones from oxalate, though, said Arnarson.

Excessive use of turmeric may also lead to an iron deficiency, and also cause some blood clotting problems.

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If you’re pregnant, you should avoid taking turmeric in medical doses.

Otherwise, turmeric is generally safe to use as a supplement, or as a topical cream.

It’s been touted as a potential remedy for hay fever, as it reduces the likelihood of sneezing, runny noses and congestion.

Turmeric could even lower the amount of cholesterol and fats in the blood.

You should speak to a doctor or nutritionist for advice on taking any new supplements.