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| - Last Updated on December 7, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that turmeric lemonade treats depression better than Prozac. Our fact check says this is mostly false.
The Claim
According to an Instagram post, “turmeric lemonade, made with the spice turmeric, can help treat depression better than Prozac.” It further implies the natural anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric being the reason for its mental health benefits.
Fact Check
Can turmeric help treat depression?
No, turmeric alone cannot treat depression. While turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the majority of the studies have focused on curcumin supplements, not turmeric in its whole form. Research suggests curcumin may help with mood-boosting effects and potentially alleviate mild depression symptoms. For example, a 2014 study found that curcumin (at a dose of 1000mg) may be a safe and effective treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), as long as the person doesn’t have suicidal thoughts or serious mental health issues. A 2017 review also supports curcumin as a promising natural treatment for depression. Other studies have shown curcumin extracts (ranging from 250mg to 1000mg) combined with saffron helped reduce depression and anxiety in people with MDD.
However, the studies on curcumin used supplements with higher doses, such as 500-1000mg of curcumin taken daily, often twice a day. In contrast, turmeric powder, which is commonly used in cooking, contains only about 3-8% curcumin by weight. A 3g spoon of turmeric powder (around a teaspoon) provides only 30-90mg of curcumin, far less than the amounts used in these studies.
Furthermore, curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is not easily absorbed by the body on its own. To improve absorption, it’s often taken with black pepper (which contains piperine) or in special supplements. Without these, the curcumin in regular turmeric powder is less effective. The turmeric you use in cooking has much less curcumin and is harder for the body to absorb, so it’s unlikely to have the same antidepressant effects as the curcumin supplements used in studies.
Can turmeric lemonade outperform Prozac?
No, turmeric lemonade cannot outperform Prozac. There is no scientific evidence that turmeric lemonade is more effective than Prozac in treating depression. A 2014 study showed that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, enhanced the effects of fluoxetine (brand name Prozac) in mice without raising the drug’s levels in the brain, suggesting curcumin works through a different mechanism. Additionally, a 2023 study in zebrafish found that both fluoxetine and curcumin helped reduce sickness-like behavior caused by inflammation and lowered certain inflammatory markers. This highlights curcumin’s potential as a supplement to antidepressants in managing inflammation-related symptoms.
Antidepressants like Prozac directly affect brain chemistry, balancing serotonin levels, which are critical for mood regulation. The effects of turmeric are general and not as targeted or consistent for managing clinical depression.
We reached out to Dr Roma Kumar, Senior Consultant Psychologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and Max Hospital in New Delhi, for her expert opinion on turmeric lemonade for depression. She says, “While turmeric has some promising health benefits, including mild mood-boosting properties, there’s no comparison between a glass of turmeric lemonade and a medication like Prozac for treating depression. Prozac is a well-researched antidepressant designed to address chemical imbalances in the brain. Turmeric might be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle, but it’s not a replacement for evidence-based treatments.”
We also got in touch with Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her perspective on turmeric lemonade and Prozac. She clarifies, “Turmeric lemonade is great for hydration and might offer some anti-inflammatory benefits, but it’s not a cure for depression. Prozac and similar antidepressants are specifically formulated to treat depression by targeting neurotransmitters. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has shown potential in some studies, but you’d need a concentrated supplement to get any real therapeutic effect—not just a homemade drink.”
Sleep and mental health are closely connected, and similar health claims have emerged for improving sleep. For example, using magnesium to enhance sleep quality or applying a bindi on the forehead for curing insomnia. However, these remedies do not work as effectively as claimed.
Should turmeric lemonade replace prescribed medication?
No, it should not replace prescribed medication. While turmeric lemonade may be a refreshing drink, it may complement, but it should never replace professional medical treatment. Depression is a serious condition, and its treatment should be overseen by a healthcare professional. Relying on natural remedies like turmeric lemonade may delay proper treatment and worsen symptoms. Always consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Another claim we’ve come across is that Padabhyanga can cure depression and anxiety. But, this is not scientifically proven.
THIP Media Take
The claim that turmeric lemonade can treat depression better than Prozac is mostly false. While turmeric may offer some mood-boosting potential, it is not a replacement for professional medical treatment. Antidepressants like Prozac are specifically designed to manage depression with proven efficacy. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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