Herb comparison
Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) vs Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Both plants are listed as traditional remedies for 2 of the same conditions, which is why they are easy to confuse. Their descriptions and full safety notes are below, free.
- About
- Myrrh is a resin obtained from several Commiphora species, notably C. myrrha, recognized by its thick, yellowish-red gum resin. It is bitter in taste and aromatic.Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial with a thick rhizome, growing to about 3 ft (90 cm), featuring lance-shaped leaves and pale yellow flowers. Renowned for its bright yellow-orange color, turmeric is a spice commonly employed in Indian cooking and in Ayurveda, where it has been used for indigestion, colds, skin infections, and arthritis. NCCIH says there isn't enough evidence to conclude that turmeric or curcumin is beneficial for any health purpose.
- Safety & precautions
- Pregnancy: Should not be used internally; it can stimulate the uterus. Essential Oil: Not advisable to ingest without professional supervision; can be irritating if used improperly.Liver: Turmeric used in food has a long safety record, but LiverTox now rates turmeric and curcumin products a well-documented cause of liver injury, with several dozen reported cases, and NCCIH notes liver damage in people taking high-bioavailability curcumin products. Stop and talk with a clinician if you develop tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine or yellowing skin or eyes. Blood Thinners & Gallstones: Seek medical advice if on anticoagulants or if gallstones are present. High Doses: Overuse can lead to digestive upset. Pregnancy: NCCIH says turmeric supplements may be unsafe during pregnancy.
Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.