Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for centuries.1 Honey is a sweet substance made by bees that has many culinary and health uses.
Turmeric and honey both have compounds that can help reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest they may help with metabolism and weight loss. However, the evidence is limited.2
Turmeric and honey may work by enhancing each other’s effects, but there is no evidence showing they are more effective together for weight loss. That said, the sweet taste of honey makes consuming the bitter turmeric easier.
Turmeric
Studies show that turmeric can help with weight loss. One research review concluded that supplementing with curcumin (turmeric’s active ingredient) significantly reduced body mass index (BMI), body weight, and waist circumference.
Supplements with more bioavailable (more easily absorbed by your body) curcumin led to greater weight and waist circumference reductions.3
Although the study concluded that curcumin may help reduce body weight, the reduction was small—less than 1 kilogram over 4-18 weeks of taking supplements. The study methods also had potential problems that could have skewed the results.3
Turmeric contains only about 2-9% curcumin. Most studies have focused on curcumin supplements, not on turmeric as a food. Because turmeric is low in curcumin and isn’t as well absorbed, it may be less effective.1
