Recently, a voluntary recall of PRAN brand turmeric spice powder was issued because it was found to contain high levels of lead. Turmeric is the main spice in curry. It also has a long history of use in herbal remedies, especially in China, India and Indonesia.

ConsumerLab.com which identifies the best quality health and nutritional products through independent testing revealed the recall on it’s website.

Analysis of the PRAN turmeric spice powder found that it contained lead levels as high as 28 and 42 ppm (parts per million), amounts that could lead to health problems, especially for infants, small children and pregnant women. Lead can accumulate in the body over time, and excessive levels can cause delayed mental and physical development and learning deficiencies.

Back in July we posted an article that turmeric has been used for headaches, migraine and joint pain, as well as other conditions. The recent recall of PRAN brand turmeric spice is a powder; the dosage that Dr. Robbins recommends is in capsule form…

* For headache: 500mg every 3 hours as needed. Take 4 in a day at most and may be used with most other headache medicines. May be combined with ginger or triptans. Limit to 5 days a week at most.

* For arthritis or joint pain: 500mg 2 to 4 times a day.

*Taking turmeric by mouth in medicinal amounts is LIKELY UNSAFE during pregnancy and breast-feeding. DON’T take turmeric if you are pregnant.

*Turmeric may slow blood clotting. It may also cause extra bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using turmeric at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Turmeric capsules can be found at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart and Vitamin Shoppe. Some brands to consider are Nature’s Bounty, Radiance Turmeric, Spring Valley and Botanic Choice.

P.S. Thanks to Fred for restoring the blog!