US Woman Hospitalized Due to Turmeric Supplement-Induced Liver Damage

In a concerning case that underscores the potential risks associated with dietary supplements, a 57-year-old woman from New Jersey was hospitalized after experiencing severe liver toxicity attributed to excessive turmeric supplementation. According to reports, Katie Mohan began taking turmeric pills in March 2025 after being influenced by a social media health advocate's claims regarding turmeric's benefits for inflammation and joint pain relief. However, within weeks of starting the regimen, she began experiencing alarming symptoms including stomach pain, nausea, and fatigue.

Mohan noted, "I just did not feel well generally. I also noticed that despite drinking a lot of water every day, that my urine was darker." Following her worsening condition, she sought medical attention, which revealed her liver enzymes were elevated to 60 times the normal level. Dr. Nikolaos Pyrsopoulos, a hepatologist at NYU Langone Health in New York City, emphasized the seriousness of her condition, stating, "Katie actually was one step before full liver damage, liver failure, requiring a liver transplant." After a six-day hospitalization and treatment, Mohan's liver began to regenerate, but the incident raises critical questions about the safety of high-dose turmeric supplements.

Historically, turmeric has been lauded for its anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to its active component, curcumin. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests an acceptable daily intake of turmeric at 0-3 mg per kilogram of body weight. For an individual weighing approximately 68 kg (about 150 lbs), this translates to about 200 mg of turmeric daily. However, excessive consumption can lead to various health issues, including digestive problems, kidney stones, and liver toxicity, as evidenced by recent studies.

Research published in the Journal of Hepatology in 2021 highlights the potential hepatotoxic effects of high-dose curcumin, indicating that prolonged use can lead to significant liver enzyme elevation, a marker of liver damage (Chen et al., Journal of Hepatology, 2021). Furthermore, Dr. Pyrsopoulos noted that while turmeric is often recommended for its health benefits, it is crucial to adhere to safety guidelines to avoid adverse effects.

The case of Katie Mohan serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen, particularly those that claim miraculous benefits without substantial scientific backing. Experts recommend a balanced diet rich in whole foods as a safer alternative to relying on supplements.

As the dietary supplement industry continues to grow, regulatory bodies face challenges in ensuring consumer safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has limited authority over the supplement market, leading to variations in product quality and safety. In light of this incident, experts advocate for stricter regulations and increased consumer awareness regarding the potential risks associated with unregulated supplements.

The implications of this incident extend beyond individual health, highlighting the need for improved public understanding of supplement safety and the importance of evidence-based health practices. Future research should focus on establishing clearer guidelines for safe supplement use and investigating the long-term effects of high-dose curcumin on liver health. Until then, consumers are urged to approach dietary supplements with caution and seek professional guidance before making significant dietary changes.