Turmeric root extract is one of four ingredients in GlucoZone. This article is for general education only and is not medical advice.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric is a plant in the ginger family, grown mainly in India and Southeast Asia. Its underground stem (rhizome) is dried and ground into the bright golden spice used in curries. Turmeric has a long history in the traditional herbal systems of India, China and Thailand.
Most of the scientific interest centers on curcumin, the natural compound that gives turmeric its yellow color. Curcumin is an antioxidant, which means it helps protect cells from everyday oxidative stress.*
What are researchers studying?
Turmeric and curcumin are among the most-studied botanicals in the world. According to the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), research has looked at areas such as joint comfort, liver health and cholesterol, with some encouraging early results. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's herb database describes turmeric's traditional use for supporting a healthy inflammatory response and joint comfort.*
NCCIH is also clear that the evidence is still developing: many studies are small, results are not always consistent, and higher-quality research is needed.
The absorption challenge – and why black pepper helps
On its own, curcumin is poorly absorbed and is broken down quickly by the body. That's why many turmeric formulas include black pepper extract. In a well-known 1998 study in human volunteers, adding piperine (the active compound in black pepper) greatly increased the amount of curcumin that reached the bloodstream compared with curcumin alone. GlucoZone includes black pepper extract for this reason. Read more about black pepper extract →
Why turmeric formulas add black pepper
Curcumin reaching the bloodstream in human volunteers, relative to curcumin alone
Researchers reported a 2000% increase in curcumin bioavailability when piperine was added.
How turmeric fits into GlucoZone
GlucoZone combines turmeric root extract with berberine HCl, green tea extract and black pepper extract in one liquid dropper a day – designed to support healthy glucose metabolism and antioxidant protection as part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle.*
Who should talk to a doctor first
- Pregnant or nursing? Turmeric supplements may be unsafe during pregnancy, and their safety while breastfeeding is not known. Do not use GlucoZone if you are pregnant or nursing.
- Taking medication? Turmeric may interact with blood thinners, some anti-inflammatory drugs, certain chemotherapy drugs and other medicines. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
- Liver or gallbladder concerns, or a history of kidney stones? Talk to your doctor first. Rare cases of liver injury have been reported, mostly with high-absorption turmeric products. Stop use and contact your doctor if you notice unusual tiredness, nausea, poor appetite, dark urine or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
- Possible side effects are usually mild and digestive, such as upset stomach, acid reflux, nausea or diarrhea.
GlucoZone™
Berberine HCl, turmeric root extract, green tea extract and black pepper extract in one easy liquid dropper a day.*
Sources & further reading
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Turmeric: Usefulness and Safety. Updated April 2025.
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. About Herbs: Turmeric.
- Shoba G, et al. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Medica. 1998;64(4):353–356.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information in this article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your healthcare provider.