A pinch of spice can transform a dish, but health experts warn that three common kitchen staples may interfere with the effectiveness of life-saving medicines.
The risk is particularly high when consumed in large amounts or as supplements.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and coumarin, which can affect how the body metabolizes drugs.
Laboratory studies show that cinnamaldehyde may accelerate the breakdown of medicines, reducing their effectiveness.
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Different types of cinnamon
Cassia cinnamon, widely sold in supermarkets, has a high coumarin content and a greater risk of interacting with blood-thinning drugs.
In contrast, Ceylon or “true” cinnamon from Sri Lanka contains less coumarin and carries a lower risk.
Risk of bleeding
Coumarin in cinnamon can amplify the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
There have been case reports of cinnamon supplements worsening this side effect.
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Cinnamon and chronic conditions
People with chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, or depression should be especially cautious with cinnamon supplements and consult a doctor before use.
Turmeric
Turmeric, the bright yellow spice found in curries, may also interfere with how the liver metabolizes certain medications.
Curcumin, its active compound, can alter the way the body processes antidepressants, blood pressure medication, antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs.
Turmeric and blood thinning
Like cinnamon, turmeric has natural blood-thinning properties.
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Combined with medications such as aspirin or warfarin, it could heighten the risk of dangerous bleeding.
Turmeric and blood sugar
Studies suggest turmeric may lower blood sugar. For those on insulin or diabetes medications, this could increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Turmeric and blood pressure
The spice may also reduce blood pressure, which in combination with prescribed blood pressure drugs, could cause levels to drop too low.
Ginger
Ginger contains active compounds such as gingerol that may interact with certain medications.
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It can act as a mild anticoagulant, making it risky when taken with blood-thinning drugs.
Ginger and diabetes
Some studies indicate ginger may lower blood sugar, though research remains inconclusive.
This uncertainty poses potential risks for those already taking diabetes medications.
High doses are the real concern
Experts emphasize that adverse effects are most often linked to supplements or high doses.
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Small amounts used in everyday cooking, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon on porridge, are generally safe.
Expert advice
Patients on blood thinners, diabetes treatments, or chemotherapy should always consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking supplements containing cinnamon, turmeric, or ginger.
This article is based on information from The Sun.