Taurine, a multifunctional sulfur-containing amino acid and conditionally essential nutrient for humans, plays a key role in various biological processes and has attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. Originally isolated from ox bile, taurine has broad applications, but a comprehensive understanding of its pharmacological properties, health benefits, and safety profile remains incomplete. In this review, we critically evaluate the existing evidence on taurine’s effects based on an extensive literature search of multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Baidu Scholar, up to May 2024. Taurine demonstrates a range of beneficial effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, modulation of lipid metabolism, neuroprotection, and cardiovascular protection. It has shown substantial impacts on anti-tumor activity, immune system modulation, blood pressure and lipid regulation, glycemic control, hepatobiliary protection, and potential anti-aging effects. However, the precise regulatory pathways underlying these benefits are not yet fully understood. Epidemiological studies indicate a correlation between high taurine dosage and a reduced risk of diseases. However, direct evidence from interventional studies remains insufficient, and existing clinical trials require further in-depth investigation. Concerns about improper use and potential health risks also highlight the need for thorough safety assessments. To address these gaps, we recommend conducting well-designed, long-term randomized controlled trials to establish effective doses for disease prevention and assess taurine’s potential as a primary or adjunct therapy. This review aims to guide future research and support public health efforts, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Curcumin, the principal polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa, has evolved from a traditional culinary pigment to a promising functional-food ingredient with extensive physiological applications. This review synthesizes six decades of research elucidating this transformation. Initially, we summarize curcumin’s ethnomedical origins, followed by an analysis of its pharmacokinetic profiles in rodents and humans. Native curcumin predominantly resides within the intestinal lumen and mucosa; however, contemporary delivery systems—including solid-lipid nanoparticles, micelles, protein–polysaccharide complexes, and piperine co-crystals—can significantly enhance systemic bioavailability by up to two orders of magnitude. We subsequently examine mechanistic evidence across nine major health domains, highlighting cardiovascular, neuroprotective, respiratory, gastrointestinal, anti-tumor, and metabolic effects, supported by more than 250 primary studies published between 2020 and 2024. Animal toxicology and clinical safety data confirm a wide safety margin, supporting the currently established acceptable daily intake of 0–3 mg kg^-1 body weight. Nonetheless, potential interactions with anticoagulants and hormetic pro-oxidant effects observed at very high doses merit continued monitoring. Ongoing challenges encompass dose standardization, metabolite characterization, and precision-nutrition clinical trials stratified by microbiome and genetic factors. Addressing these research gaps and integrating curcumin into optimized food matrices are essential steps toward translating laboratory findings into evidence-based dietary strategies that safely enhance human health.