Why Turmeric Formulas Include Black Pepper Extract
Turmeric, curcumin, piperine, BioPerine: four words you will see on almost every turmeric label. Here is what each one means and why they come as a pair.
In short
Curcumin, the best-known compound in turmeric, is poorly absorbed on its own. Black pepper extract contains piperine, which supports curcumin absorption.* That is why turmeric formulas so often include it.
Turmeric, curcumin and curcuminoids
Turmeric is the golden root behind curry powder. Its best-known compounds are called curcuminoids, and curcumin is the main one. A "95% curcuminoids" extract is concentrated so that 95% of its weight is curcuminoids.
The absorption problem
On its own, curcumin is not absorbed well. Much of it passes through without reaching your bloodstream. This is one of the most consistent findings in turmeric research, and it is the reason formulas pair it with something else.
Where black pepper comes in
Black pepper contains piperine, which supports curcumin absorption.* BioPerine® is a branded black pepper extract standardized to 95% piperine. Seeing it on a label tells you exactly which black pepper extract was used and at what strength.
What is in our formula (2 capsules)
| Turmeric root powder | 635 mg |
|---|---|
| Turmeric extract (95% curcuminoids) | 10 mg |
| BioPerine® black pepper extract | 10 mg |
| Capsule | Vegan cellulose |
How to take it
Take 2 capsules daily with 6 to 8 oz of water and a meal. Curcumin is fat-soluble, so a meal with some fat in it is a good fit.
Who should check first
- Anyone taking blood thinners.
- Anyone with gallbladder issues.
- Anyone on prescription medication: piperine can change how some medicines are absorbed, so ask your pharmacist.
- People who are pregnant or nursing, and anyone under 18.
Turmeric for an active routine
Our Movement & Mobility Bundle pairs Turmeric + BioPerine with Glucosamine + MSM, a daily joint formula with 300 mg MSM, vegetal glucosamine, turmeric, boswellia, white willow bark, hyaluronic acid and black pepper extract. Take both with a meal. Glucosamine + MSM contains white willow bark, so check with your doctor if you are sensitive to aspirin.
Shop this guide
- Turmeric + BioPerine Formula: turmeric root, 95% curcuminoids and BioPerine
- Movement & Mobility Bundle: Turmeric + BioPerine with Glucosamine + MSM
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you are pregnant, nursing, under 18, taking medication or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement.
