A Guide on Understanding the Different Types of Turmeric Supplements

Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional wellness practices, but in more recent years, it has received a lot of hype as a go-to natural health supplement.

You’ve probably seen it everywhere, from golden lattes at your local café to the spice aisle at Coles and Woolworths, as well as on health supplement store shelves.

Known for its vibrant colour and impressive health-supporting properties, turmeric has become a favourite for people looking to take a more holistic approach to their wellbeing. But with so many types of turmeric supplements out there, how do you know which one’s right for you?

In this article, we’ll give a simple rundown of what turmeric is and why it seems to have become so popular in recent times. We’ll explore the different supplement formats (there’s more than just capsules), take a look at turmeric powder and how to get the most out of it, and share some tips on choosing the best turmeric option for your needs.

Whether you're new to turmeric or looking to upgrade your routine, this guide can help you narrow down your choices.

Turmeric comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant and has been a staple in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Known for its deep golden colour and warm, earthy flavour, it’s long been used to support digestion and general wellbeing.

The most tangible benefits of turmeric come from a natural compound called curcumin – that’s the part researchers have been most excited about. While turmeric refers to the whole root (or its powdered form), curcumin is one of its key active ingredients.

So, when you hear about turmeric supplements, many are focused on curcumin content because that’s where most of the health-supporting potential lies.

These days, turmeric isn’t just something you sprinkle into a curry – it comes in all sorts of supplement forms to suit different lifestyles and preferences.

You’ve got your classic capsules and tablets, which are easy to take on the go. Then there are liquid turmeric extracts that can be added to water or smoothies for a quick wellness boost.

Gummies have surged in popularity over the past few years, especially for those who prefer a quick and tasty way to take their supplements.

For external use, you’ll even find turmeric in topical products like creams and balms. And of course, there’s good old turmeric in powder form, which you can use in cooking or drinks like turmeric lattes.

Turmeric powder has a distinctive taste – warm, slightly bitter, and earthy with a hint of peppery spice. The turmeric powder taste can vary slightly depending on its origin and freshness, but it’s a bold flavour that can add depth to both sweet and savoury foods. 

While turmeric powder is packed with beneficial compounds, its standout active ingredient, curcumin, is not easily absorbed by the body on its own.

That’s where black pepper comes in. Black pepper in turmeric formulations plays a powerful role in supporting absorption. It contains a compound called piperine, which can enhance curcumin’s bioavailability by up to 2,000%.

That’s why you’ll often see turmeric powder with pepper used in recipes, teas, and supplement blends. It’s an effective and natural way to get more out of your turmeric.

Turmeric has earned its place as a wellness staple thanks to its wide-ranging benefits. One of the most well-known is its natural support for inflammation, which is why it’s often used by those looking to maintain healthy joints and mobility.

It also has a long history of use for digestive support, helping to soothe the gut and support digestive comfort. Whether you’re stirring it into warm milk or taking it in capsule form, turmeric continues to be a go-to for those wanting a natural way to support their daily wellbeing.

Finding the right turmeric supplement comes down to your lifestyle and how you like to incorporate wellness into your day.

If you enjoy cooking, using turmeric powder in meals can be a flavourful and functional option – just remember to pair it with black pepper to help support absorption.

If convenience is key, look for supplements that feature piperine (from black pepper) or advanced delivery methods like liposomal technology for improved bioavailability. And no matter the format – whether you go for turmeric capsules or ground turmeric powder – quality matters.

Always choose products made from quality sources to ensure you're getting the full spectrum of turmeric's natural benefits.

Turmeric has earned its place in the spotlight thanks to its long history of traditional use and its growing popularity in modern wellness routines.

In this guide, we’ve explored the difference between turmeric and its active compound curcumin, the many supplement formats available, and the benefits of pairing turmeric powder with black pepper to enhance absorption.

We’ve also looked at how turmeric may support joint health, digestion, and help manage inflammation.

Ultimately, choosing the right turmeric supplement comes down to what suits your lifestyle, preferences, and health goals. Whether you enjoy cooking with turmeric powder or prefer the ease of a capsule or liquid extract, it’s worth exploring what works best for you.

Keep in mind that turmeric isn’t an instant fix – it can take time and consistency to experience its full benefits. Listen to your body, choose high-quality products, and make turmeric a part of your daily routine in a way that feels natural and sustainable.