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Abstract

Turmeric is an ancient spice derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, which is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Also known as 'Golden Spice of India' turmeric has been used in India for medicinal purposes for centuries. It has been used in traditional medicine as a household remedy for various diseases, including biliary disorders, anorexia, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism and sinusitis. In addition to its use as a spice and pigment, turmeric and its constituents mainly curcumin and essential oils shows a wide spectrum of biological actions. These include its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, anticoagulant, antifertility, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antiviral, anti-fibrotic, anti-venom, antiulcer, hypotensive and hypocholesteremic activities. Modern interest on turmeric started in 1970's when researchers found that the herb may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Safety evaluation studies indicate that both turmeric and curcumin are well tolerated at a very high dose without any toxic effects. Thus, turmeric and its constituents have the potential for the development of modern medicine for the treatment of various diseases. INTRODUCTION: Turmeric has also been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, which integrates the medicinal properties of herbs with food. This extraordinary herb has found its way into the spotlight in the west and rest of globe, because of its wide range of medicinal benefits. Use of turmeric dates back nearly 4000 years to the Vedic culture in India. It is extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha medicine as home remedy for various diseases 1, 2 . Turmeric, derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, (family-Zingiberaceae) is a perennial plant having short stem with large oblong leaves, and bears ovate, pyriform or oblong rhizomes, which are often branched and brownish-yellow in colour.
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
Available online on www.ijpsr.com 1987
IJPSR (2012), Vol. 3, Issue 07 (Review Article)
Received on 21 March, 2012; received in revised form 12 June, 2012; accepted 28 June, 2012
TURMERIC: THE GOLDEN SPICE OF LIFE
Preeti Rathaur*, Waseem Raja, P.W. Ramteke and Suchit A. John
Department of Biological Sciences, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences,
Allahabad- 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India
ABSTRACT
Turmeric is an ancient spice derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa,
which is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Also known as
‘Golden Spice of India’ turmeric has been used in India for medicinal
purposes for centuries. It has been used in traditional medicine as a
household remedy for various diseases, including biliary disorders, anorexia,
cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism and sinusitis. In
addition to its use as a spice and pigment, turmeric and its constituents
mainly curcumin and essential oils shows a wide spectrum of biological
actions. These include its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic,
anti-mutagenic, anticoagulant, antifertility, anti-diabetic, antibacterial,
antifungal, antiprotozoal, antiviral, anti-fibrotic, anti-venom, antiulcer,
hypotensive and hypocholesteremic activities. Modern interest on turmeric
started in 1970's when researchers found that the herb may possess anti-
inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Safety evaluation studies indicate
that both turmeric and curcumin are well tolerated at a very high dose
without any toxic effects. Thus, turmeric and its constituents have the
potential for the development of modern medicine for the treatment of
various diseases.
INTRODUCTION: Turmeric has also been used for
centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, which integrates the
medicinal properties of herbs with food. This
extraordinary herb has found its way into the spotlight
in the west and rest of globe, because of its wide range
of medicinal benefits. Use of turmeric dates back
nearly 4000 years to the Vedic culture in India. It is
extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha
medicine as home remedy for various diseases 1, 2.
Turmeric, derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma
longa, (family- Zingiberaceae) is a perennial plant
having short stem with large oblong leaves, and bears
ovate, pyriform or oblong rhizomes, which are often
branched and brownish-yellow in colour.
Turmeric a native of South-East Asia, is used as a food
additive (spice), preservative and colouring agent in
Asian countries including China, Bangladesh and South
East Asia. It is primarily cultivated in China, Taiwan, Sri
Lanka, Bangladesh, Burma (Myanmar), Nigeria,
Australia, West Indies, Peru, Jamaica and some other
Caribbean and Latin American countries.
Accounting for about 78 percent of world turmeric
production, India is the largest producer of turmeric 3.
It is also the biggest consumer and exporter of
turmeric. Turmeric is considered as auspicious and is a
part of religious rituals. In old Hindu medicine, it is
extensively used for the treatment of sprain and
swelling caused by injury.
Keywords:
Turmeric
Curcuma longa
sprain
Haridra’ or ‘Haldi,
Curcumin
Correspondence to Author:
Preeti Rathaur
Department of Biological Sciences, Sam
Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture,
Technology and Sciences, Allahabad- 211,
Uttar Pradesh, India
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
Available online on www.ijpsr.com 1988
In recent times, traditional India medicine uses
turmeric powder for the treatment of biliary disorders,
anorexia, coryza, cough, diabetes, wounds, hepatic
disorders, rheumatism and sinusitis etc 4.
Chemical Composition of Turmeric: Also known as
‘Haridra’ or ‘Haldi’, turmeric contains protein (6.3%),
fat (5.1%), minerals (3.5%), carbohydrates (69.4%) and
moisture (23.1%) The essential oil (5-8%) obtained by
steam distillation of rhizomes has α-phellanderene
(1%), sabiene (0.6%), cineol (1%), borneol (0.5%),
zingiberene (25%) and sesquiterpines (53%) 5.
Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of turmeric. The
other two are desmethoxycurcumin and bis-
desmethoxycurcumin. Curcumin gives yellow colour to
turmeric and is now recognized as being responsible
for most of the therapeutic effects. It is estimated that
2-5% of turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin was first
isolated from turmeric in 1815 and the structure was
delineated in 1910 as diferuloylmethane 6.
Most currently available preparation of curcumin
contains approximately 77% diferuloylmethane, 18%
desmethoxycurcumin and 5% bis-desmethoxy
curcumin. Curcumin is hydrophobic in nature and
frequently soluble in dismethylsulfoxide, acetone,
ethanol and oils. It has absorption maxima around
425nm. When exposed to acidic conditions, the colour
of turmeric/curcumin turns from yellow to deep red,
and the form in which it is used in various religious
ceremonies 7.
A World of Turmeric: Turmeric, a golden spice, had
been used by the people of the Indian subcontinent for
centuries with no known side effects, not only as a
component of food but also to treat a wide variety of
ailments. As far as documented evidence, it is used
daily in India for at least 6000 years as a medicine,
beauty aid, cooking spice, a dye and a lot more.
Turmeric was mentioned in the writings of Marco Polo
concerning his 1280 journey to China and India and it
was first introduced to Europe in the 13th century by
Arab traders. Vasco de Gama, a Portuguese sailor
during 15th century, after his visit to India, truly
introduced spices to the West 8. For at least 1000 years
Chinese Medicine has used Turmeric especially for the
Spleen, Stomach, and Liver Meridians.
They use it to stimulate and strengthen the blood, to
purify, to decrease blood pressure, to reduce
abdominal pain, anti-biotic, anti-viral and an analgesic.
Because of its colour and taste, turmeric was named
“Indian saffron” in Europe. Today, India is the primary
exporter of turmeric (known as haldi in India).
Although its ability to preserve food through its
antioxidant mechanism, to give colour to food and to
add taste to the food is well known, its health
promoting effects are less well recognized or
appreciated. It was once considered a cure for
jaundice, an appetite suppressant and a digestive 9. In
Indian and Chinese medicines, turmeric was used as
anti-inflammatory agents to treat gas, colic,
toothaches, chest pains, and menstrual difficulties.
This spice was also used to help with stomach and liver
problems, to heal wounds and lighten scars and as a
cosmetic.
Healing Properties Overview: Besides flavouring food,
turmeric, affectionately called as “Kitchen Queen”, has
been used in traditional medicine as a household
remedy for various diseases, including biliary disorders,
anorexia, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders,
rheumatism and sinusitis etc. Turmeric has been
shown to have a wide spectrum of biological actions.
These include its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, ant
carcinogenic, ant mutagenic, anticoagulant, anti-
fertility, anti- diabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-
protozoal, antiviral, anti-fibrotic, antivenin, antiulcer,
hypotensive and hypocholesteremic activities 10, 11, 12.
Its anticancer effect is mainly mediated through
induction of apoptosis. It’s anti-inflammatory,
anticancer and antioxidant roles may be clinically
exploited to control rheumatism, carcinogenesis and
oxidative stress-related pathogenesis. Therapeutic
uses include: AIDS/HIV, anaemia, cancer, diabetes,
digestion, food poisoning, gall stones etc. It reduces
fevers, diarrhoea, urinary disorders, insanity,
poisoning, cough and lactation problems in general 11.
Clinically, turmeric has already been used to reduce
post-operative inflammation. Safety evaluation studies
indicate that both turmeric and curcumin are well
tolerated at a very high dose without any toxic effects.
Thus, turmeric has the potential for the development
of modern medicine for the treatment of various
diseases.
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
Available online on www.ijpsr.com 1989
Turmeric as First Aid: Researches has shown turmeric
as haemostatic, able to stop the bleeding of wound
and a vulnerary, a great healer of wounds due to being
both anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial 12, 13.
Turmeric powder has healing effect on both aseptic
and septic wounds in rats and rabbits 14.
The Skin’s Beautician: Turmeric is a skin’s food: it
purifies and nourishes the blood and results in healthy
and glowing skin. Due to its anti-bacterial and anti-
septic properties it is excellent for skin diseases like
eczema, acne, skin cancers etc. and helps in preventing
premature ageing. Turmeric is used in the formulation
of cosmetics and sunscreens 15, 16.
Pain and Inflammation: Inflammation is generally
regarded as a source of many health challenges.
Turmeric is an excellent anti-inflammatory herb; easing
conditions such as bursitis, arthritis, back pain etc and
plays an important role in inflammation 17. The anti-
inflammatory action of turmeric includes lowering
histamine levels and increasing the production of
natural cortisone by adrenal glands. It inhibits release
of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and the gene
that makes inflammatory COX-2 enzymes.
Perhaps Turmeric’s most important anti-inflammatory
mechanism is its effects on the Prostaglandins (PGs), a
large family of potent lipids produced by the body. PG1
and PG3 calm the body while PG2 inflames the body.
Turmeric is a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 5-
lipoxygenase and also 5-HETE production in
neutrophils. Reducing these enzymes means less
arachidonic acid metabolism, which means less PG2,
which means less pain and inflammation 18. In patients,
undergoing surgery, oral application of turmeric
reduces post-operative inflammation 19.
Blood, Liver, Heart and Respiratory System: Turmeric
is a potent blood purifier and helps to create new
blood. Turmeric also protects liver from toxins and
pathogens. It is known to destroy major hepatoxins,
like aflatoxin and to rebuild the liver. Turmeric
increases the secretion of bile promotes bilification
and may prevent cholehithiasis. Turmeric also removes
cholesterol from the liver and inhibits its assimilation.
Turmeric’s protective effect on the heart
(cardiovascular system) include lowering cholesterol
and triglyceride levels decreasing susceptibility of low
density lipoproteins (LDL) to lipid peroxidation and
inhibiting platelet aggregation. Turmeric protects
against heart diseases by lowering high blood
cholesterol level and by preventing blood clotting
which can lead to heart attack and stroke 20, 21.
Inhibition of platelets aggregation by C. longa
constituents is thought to be via potentiation of
prostacyclin synthesis and inhibition of thrombin
synthesis. Besides these, support of the respiratory
system is one of the main traditional uses of Turmeric.
As an anti-oxidant it protects the lungs from pollution
and toxins. It also helps the oxygen transfer from the
lungs to the blood.
The Awesome Anti-Oxidant: The antioxidant activity
of turmeric was reported 22 as early as 1975. It acts as
a scavenger of oxygen free radicals 23. It can protect
haemoglobin from oxidation 24. Water- and fat-soluble
extracts of turmeric and curcumin, its main active
constituent, exhibits strong antioxidant activity,
comparable to vitamins C, E and Beta-Carotene.
Oxidation by free radicals is linked with accelerated
aging and virtually every major chronic disease
including atherosclerosis, cancer, cardiovascular
diseases, cataracts, and rheumatoid arthritis. In vitro,
curcumin can significantly inhibit the generation of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) like superoxide anions,
H2O2 and nitrite radical generation by activated
macrophages 25.
An in vitro study measuring the effect of curcumin on
endothelial heme oxygenase-1, an inducible stress
protein, was conducted utilizing bovine aortic
endothelial cells 26. Incubation (18 hours) with
curcumin resulted in enhanced cellular resistance to
oxidative damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) also
play an important role in cell mediated cytotoxicity
(CMC) of the immune system. Numerous reports
indicate that turmeric could mediate both pro-oxidant
and antioxidant roles, making turmeric usage a
consumer choice for feeling and looking young;
preventing premature ageing; cancer and tumours
prevention, liver protection, removing oxidized
cholesterol thereby preventing heart attacks; reducing
pain and acute (injuries) and chronic inflammations
(arthritis) 27, 28.
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
Available online on www.ijpsr.com 1990
Turmeric for Stomach and Intestine: And pathogens
Constituents of Curcuma longa exert several protective
effects on the Gastro-Intestinal (GI) system. Sodium
curcuminate inhibited intestinal spasm and p-
tolymethylcarbinol, a turmeric component, increased
gastrin, secretin, bicarbonate, and pancreatic enzyme
secretion. Turmeric has also been shown to inhibit
ulcer formation caused by stress, alcohol,
indomethacin, pyloric ligation, and reserpine,
significantly increasing gastric wall mucus in rats
subjected to these gastrointestinal insults. Research
has also confirmed the digestive benefits of turmeric
29.
Turmeric acts as a cholagogue, stimulating bile
production, thus, increasing the bodies’ ability to
digest fats, improving digestion and eliminating toxins
from the liver. Turmeric powder has beneficial effect
on the stomach. It increases mucin secretion in rabbits
and may thus act as gastro-protectant against irritants.
Curcumin has some good effects on the intestine also.
Antispasmodic activity of sodium curcuminate was
observed in isolated guinea pig ileum 30.
Curcumin also enhances intestinal lipase, sucrase and
maltase activity 31. Turmeric is traditionally used for
weak stomachs, poor digestion, dyspepsia, to
normalize metabolism, to help digest protein, and to
increase the bio-availability of food and the ability of
the stomach to withstand digestive acids. Turmeric
reduces the intensity of cysteamine-induced duodenal
ulcers, increases the gastric wall mucus, and also
normalizes gastric juices 32.
Ears, Eyes, Nose and Mouth: Due to its astringent,
anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric
is excellent for the toothaches or tooth decay and is
used in preparations of toothpastes. It tones the gums
and destroys bacteria whose acidic wastes cause
cavities. One of the main causes of eye disease,
especially cataracts, is the oxidation of lens in your
eyes. Turmeric taken internally decreases the oxidation
of the lens by causing a significant induction of
glutathione-S-transferase isozyme rGST8-8 in the lens
epithelium 33. Turmeric also works efficiently for
stopping nosebleeds, helps to clear the sinuses, restore
a more acute sense of smell, and helps to purify the
mind and brain.
Data are also available showing that turmeric powder
is used in Indian and Chinese medicines for treating
cough, sputum, sinusitis, dyspnoea, toothaches, ear
and eye pains etc 34.
Antifertility activity and Female Reproductive System:
Petroleum ether and aqueous extracts of turmeric
rhizomes show 100% antifertility effect in rats when
fed orally 35. Implantation is completely inhibited by
these extracts 36. Curcumin inhibits 5a-reductase,
which converts testosterone to 5a-dihydrotesto-
sterone, thereby inhibiting the growth of flank organs
in hamster 37.
Curcumin also inhibits human sperm motility and has
the potential for the development of a novel
intravaginal contraceptive 38. Turmeric regulates
menses, decreases intensity and pain of periods,
decreases amenorrhea and decreases uterine tumors.
Turmeric is a mild and supportive uterine stimulant.
Antimicrobial activity of Turmeric: Turmeric extract
and the essential oil of Curcuma longa inhibit the
growth of a variety of bacteria, parasites, and
pathogenic fungi. The aqueous extract of turmeric
rhizomes has antibacterial effects 39. Both curcumin
and the oil fraction suppress growth of several bacteria
like Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Lactobacillus,
etc.40. Ether and chloroform extracts and oil of C. longa
have antifungal effects 41. Crude ethanol extract also
possesses antifungal activity 41.
Turmeric oil is also active against Aspergillus flavus, A.
parasiticus, Fusarium moniliforme. The ethanol extract
of the rhizomes has anti-Entamoeba histolytica
activity. Curcumin has anti-Leishmania activity in vitro
42. Several synthetic derivatives of curcumin have anti-
L. amazonensis effect 43. Anti-Plasmodium falciparum
and anti-L. major effects of curcumin have also been
reported 42. Turmeric has been shown to have antiviral
activity 10, 44. It acts as an efficient inhibitor of Epstein-
Barr virus (EBV) key activator Bam H fragment z left
frame 1 (BZLF1) protein transcription in Raji DR-LUC
cells 44.
EBV inducers such as 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-
acetate, sodium butyrate and transforming growth
factor-beta increase the level of BZLF1 m-RNA at 1248
h after treatment in these cells, which is effectively
blocked by curcumin 45.
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
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Most importantly, curcumin also shows anti-HIV
(human immunodeficiency virus) activity by inhibiting
the HIV-1 integrase needed for viral replication 46. It
also inhibits UV light induced HIV gene expression 47.
Thus curcumin and its analogues may have the
potential for novel drug development against HIV.
Turmeric for Nervous disorders, Detox and Immunity:
Curcumin, active constituent of turmeric, can bind with
heavy metals such as cadmium and lead, thereby
reducing the toxicity of these heavy metals. This
property of curcumin explains its protective action to
the brain. Curcumin acts as an inhibitor for
cyclooxygenase, 5-lipoxygenase and glutathione S-
transferase. Curcumin and manganese complex of
curcumin offer protective action against vascular
dementia by exerting antioxidant activity 48.
Turmeric is one of the 10 best herbs used to treat
poisoning and to purify blood. It detoxifies the body
and mind, helping the body to cure itself. One sure sign
of this is that it increases the level of the enzyme
glutathione S-transferase (GST), which is essential to
detoxification. In addition it helps beautify the skin and
improve the complexion, promoting circulation and
nutrition to the surface of the body. It vitalizes the
body's own natural healing energy through its action of
strengthening digestion and circulation, and aiding in
the regulation of all bodily systems.
Turmeric with its potent anti-microbial and anti-
oxidant activities interferes with the ability of microbes
and viruses to replicate them and it increases body’s
Immune system’s ability to fight the infection and
ultimately helps in enhancing the immunity of body.
Curcumin can also help the body fight off cancer
should some cells escape apoptosis. When researchers
looked at the lining of the intestine after ingestion of
curcumin, they found that CD4+ T-helper and B type
immune cells were greater in number 49.
In addition to this localized immune stimulation,
curcumin also enhances immunity in general.
Researchers in India have documented increased
antibodies and more immune action in mice given
regular turmeric dosages.
Turmeric for Diabetes: Turmeric is an important herb
in most Ayurvedic treatments of diabetes as it lowers
blood sugar, increases glucose metabolism and
potentate’s insulin activity more than three-fold. Part
of the action might be due to its chromium content.
Curcumin prevents galactose-induced cataract
formation at very low doses 50. Both turmeric and
curcumin decrease blood sugar level in alloxan-induced
diabetes in rat 51. Curcumin also decreases advanced
glycation end products induced complications in
diabetes mellitus 52.
Turmeric vs. Cancer: Turmeric/ curcumin act as a
potent anti-carcinogenic compound and were recently
nominated by the National Cancer Institute for study.
Induction of apoptosis plays an important role in its
anti-carcinogenic properties. Curcumin induces
apoptosis, inhibits cell cycle progression and finally
prevents cancerous cell growth. The mechanism
responsible for apoptosis (programmed cell death)
involves inhibition of cell signaling pathway genes like
Akt, NF-kB, AP 1 and DNA damage.
Turmeric inhibits the Topoisomerase enzyme, which is
required for the replication of cancer and parasite
cells. It strongly inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis and
increases mitochondrial membrane permeability; a
very significant property in the apoptosis of
proliferating cells. It can also prevent proliferation by
cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase in a variety of
malignant tumors.
G2/M arrest renders cells more susceptible to the
cytotoxic effects of radiation, suggesting that curcumin
may find significance as a radio sensitizer 53. The ability
to inhibit COX-2 gene overexpression, which is
implicated in the carcinogenesis of many different
tumors, has suggested a plausible role of curcumin to
protect children against leukaemia. Curcumin was
shown to induce apoptosis among leukaemia B
lymphoma cells and inhibits the multiplication of
leukaemia cells in laboratory studies 54.
Earlier research conducted at the University of Texas,
M.D. Anderson Cancer Centre has shown that
curcumin an active compound of turmeric can also
inhibit Cytochrome P450, a phase I metabolizing iso-
enzyme which is required for toxic chemicals such as
heterocyclic amines to induce DNA adduct formation
leading to carcinogenesis 55 and on the other hand to
activate phase II metabolizing enzymes generally
regarded as favourable detoxifiers, implies its strong
Rathaur et al., IJPSR, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994 ISSN: 0975-8232
Available online on www.ijpsr.com 1992
promise as a possible safe and nontoxic chemo
preventive and/or treatment agent for colon, skin,
stomach, liver, lung, duodenum, soft palate and
breasts cancers 56. Furthermore, curcumin can
enhance cancer cells’ sensitivity to certain drugs
commonly used to combat cancer and can potentially
improve the effectiveness of radiation treatment.
For example, IFN-Gamma chemotherapy was found to
be effective against non-small cell lung cancer, which
was relatively insensitive in the absence of curcumin.
Another study reported that curcumin could protect
animals from the tumour-producing effects of deadly
gamma radiation and it protects against damaging
ultraviolet light, which is known to play a role in the
development of skin cancer. Ayurveda especially
recommends turmeric for cancers of the female
reproductive system, namely breast and uterine
cancer.
Even if one was going the allopathic route to treat their
cancer, they can still use turmeric to increase the
effectiveness and decrease some of the side effects of
cancer treatments. The efficacy of turmeric to
decrease cell viability, cell cycle arrest and induction of
apoptosis is encouraging to the development of a
natural drug with known Nuke-B inhibitory activity57.
In short, turmeric is an example of a natural dietary
agent capable of acting at multi levels in cellular
pathway for the prevention or treatment of diseases
with multifactorial etiologies such as colon, skin,
stomach, liver, lung duodenum, soft palate and breast
cancer 58.
CONCLUSION: It is a wonder that a natural yellow
pigment, turmeric, which has been consuming in India
since the second millennium BC in both medicine and
food has become one of the most cited natural
molecule in terms of its capacity to deliver a multitude
of health guarding effects as studied and established
by modern scientific community around the globe. For
the last few decades, extensive work has been done to
establish the biological activities and pharmacological
actions of turmeric and its extracts. It has been used in
ayurvedic medicine since ancient times, with various
biological applications. Various studies are in progress
for using turmeric in drug-development. Although the
crude extract has numerous medicinal applications,
clinical applications can be made only after extensive
research on its bioactivity, mechanism of action,
pharmacotherapeutics and toxicity studies.
However, as turmeric and its compounds show a wide
spectrum of biological activities, it would be easier to
develop new drugs from turmeric after extensive
studies on its mechanism of action and
pharmacological effects. Recent years have seen an
increased enthusiasm in treating various diseases with
natural products.
Turmeric/Curcumin is a non-toxic, highly promising
natural antioxidant, spice having a wide spectrum of
biological functions. It is expected that turmeric and its
constituents specially curcumin and essential oils may
find application as a novel drug in the near future to
control various diseases, including inflammatory
disorders, carcinogenesis, HIV/AIDS, diabetes,
oxidative stress-induced pathogenesis and a lot more.
All of these studies should further add to the
usefulness of turmeric and its constituents specially
curcumin and essential oil. Overall, due to its usage,
biological safety, combined with its cost and efficacy,
and thousands of years of experimentation justify
calling turmeric “The Golden Spice of Life”.
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How to cite this article: Rathaur P., Raja W., Ramteke P.W.,
John S.A.: Turmeric: The Golden Spice of Life. Int J Pharm Sci
Res, 2012; Vol. 3(7): 1987-1994
... T urmeric (Curcuma longa), commonly called 'Besar' in Nepali, is a brownish-yellow colored compound and a native of South-East Asia where it is used as a food spice, preservative and coloring agent. 1,2 Not only this, turmeric is extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha medicine as home remedy for various diseases since ancient times. 3 After the identification of curcumin as the main constituent of turmeric, multiple pharmacological activities of curcumin like anti-microbial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anticoagulant, anti-fertility and wound healing activities have been reported. ...
... 3 After the identification of curcumin as the main constituent of turmeric, multiple pharmacological activities of curcumin like anti-microbial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anticoagulant, anti-fertility and wound healing activities have been reported. 1,[3][4][5] Microbiologically, urinary tract infection (UTI) is established when pathogenic microorganisms are grown in cultures of properly collected midstream "clean catch" urine sample with a count of ≥10 5 organisms per ml. 6 UTI is caused by microbial invasion of the genitourinary tract. ...
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Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an important global health problem affecting millions of peoples annually; more common among females. Among the various bacterial etiologies for UTIs, Escherichia coli is the commonest one. Turmeric has been used since ancient times as a home remedy for various medical conditions. The aim of our study is to determine the prevalence of E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus associated UTIs, their antibiogram and antibacterial effects of aqueous extracts and discs of turmeric against these isolates. Methods: All the urine samples were cultured and the isolates were identified as E. coli and S. aureus based on standard microbiological tests. Different turmeric extracts were prepared using ethanol, methanol and distilled water as solvents. Turmeric discs were also prepared by soaking the sterile filter paper discs in the different turmeric extracts. The isolated E. coli and S. aureus were tested for antibacterial activity against turmeric extracts and discs by using agar well diffusion and disc diffusion assays. Results: Out of 240 urine samples, 90 showed growth with 26.67% (24) and 5.55% (5) isolates of E. coli and S. aureus respectively. Most of the isolates were isolated from females of the age group 41-60 years. No zone of inhibition was observed for any of the bacterial isolates as well as the standard ATCC strains of E. coli and S. aureus against all the turmeric extracts. Nitrofurantoin and Gentamicin were most effective antibiotics against E. coli and S. aureus respectively. Conclusion: This study concluded that no antibacterial activity was seen for bacteria isolated from suspected cases of UTIs namely; E. coli and S. aureus against different turmeric extracts and discs.
... It is available around the world and known for its effective nutritional supplement with excellent antioxidant properties (Amalraj et al., 2017). It is cultivated traditionally as medicinal herb, dietary spice, food source, food preservative, and a coloring agent in many countries of the world (Rathaur et al., 2012;Ilesanmi et al., 2023b). Many studies have reported that turmeric possesses potent multiple properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, antibacterial and anticoagulant, and antidiabetic based on its free-radical-scavenging activity expressed by the major domicile bioactive compound; curcumin, a fat-soluble bioactive compound, whose characteristics and functionality is equable to its popularly reported properties of turmeric (Zia et al., 2021). ...
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The kinetics, inhibition studies and the interactions of inhibitors and substrates with purified peroxidase from rhizomes of turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) ( Cl P) through molecular docking was described. This was with the view to providing information on the catalytic mechanism of the enzyme with substrate and inhibitors for various applications. The crude enzyme was purified in single step purification using aqueous two-phase partitioning system (ATPS). Real kinetic studies on the purified enzyme showed linear patterns with intersection on the x-axis in the third quadrant suggesting sequential ordered bi bi mechanism of substrate addition to the peroxidase. The real kinetic constants − K m catechol and K m H 2 O 2 estimated from the secondary replots for the purified peroxidase from turmeric were 168 ± 2.0 mM and 87.4 ± 1.2 mM respectively. The Vmax obtained for the purified enzyme was 68,965 ± 50 units/mg protein. These led to first-order rate constant, k cat/ K m of 0.49 × 10 ⁶ M − 1 s − 1 . All the inhibitors had inhibitory effect on the activity of Cl P at varying concentrations. The inhibition constant ( K i) values for the inhibitors at increasing order are 0.4 mM for cysteine, 4.9 mM for ascorbic acid, 5 mM for citric acid and 9 mM for EDTA. Cysteine was the most potent inhibitor. From the docking simulation, the calculated docking score of the binding energy for ascorbic acid, citric acid, cysteine and EDTA were − 8.988, -4.147, -3.361 and − 2.206 kcal/mol respectively. The lower binding energy value of the inhibitor represents the higher affinity to the receptor protein. The binding interaction of the purified enzyme showed that ascorbic acid, citric acid and EDTA have 2 hydrogen bonds formed respectively while cysteine had 4 hydrogen bonds. The combination of kinetic and inhibition properties makes the enzyme a successful candidate to be employed for various applications in industrial and biotechnological processes.
... It is known as terre me3rite in French and simply as "yellow root" in many languages in many cultures, its name is based on the Latinword curcuma. (Preeti Rathaur et al., 2012). In 2020-2021, the estimated turmeric production is about 2.64 tonnes with a productivity of 6439kg/ ha (2606 kg/acre) (AMIC 2021). ...
... It is known as terre me3rite in French and simply as "yellow root" in many languages in many cultures, its name is based on the Latinword curcuma. (Preeti Rathaur et al., 2012). In 2020-2021, the estimated turmeric production is about 2.64 tonnes with a productivity of 6439kg/ ha (2606 kg/acre) (AMIC 2021). ...
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Isolation, Cultural and Morphological Characteristic Features of Pythium aphanidermatum, Causing Rhizome Rot of Turmeric
... Turmeric is a golden spice obtained from the rhizome of Curcuma longa plant, known worldwide for its effective nutritional supplement with excellent antioxidant properties (Amalraj et al., 2017). Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) belong to the Zingiberaceae family, cultivated traditionally as medicinal herb, dietary spice, food source, food preservative, and a colouring agent in many countries of the world (Rathaur et al., 2012). It is a perennial plant having large leaves and a short stem, it sprouts oblong rhizomes that are brownish-yellow coloured (Chanda and Ramachandra, 2019). ...
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We report the bioavailability, purification, and biochemical properties of peroxidase from the rhizome of turmeric ( Curcuma longa ). The potentials of the purified enzyme in some biotechnological applications were described. Turmeric peroxidase was first purified efficiently using aqueous two-phase partitioning (ATPS) with a percentage yield and purification fold of 51% and 5 respectively. The purified turmeric POD had a subunit molecular mass of 69 ± 0.2 kDa as adjudged on SDS-PAGE and a native molecular mass of 72 ± 0.3 kDa using mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. This suggested that turmeric POD is monomeric in nature. Substrate specificity analysis revealed that catechol was the preferred substrate for the enzyme among other substrates investigated. The order of substrate preference for the purified enzyme was catechol>o-dianisidine>pyrogallol>L-DOPA. The optimum temperature and pH of the purified turmeric POD were 60 ⁰C and 8.0 respectively. The activation energy was estimated to be 3.67 kJ/ mol. The enzyme was stable to temperature retaining up to 70% activity at 60 o C after 1 hr. The purified enzyme was activated in the presence of chlorides of Na ⁺ , K ⁺ , Ca ²⁺ , Cu ²⁺ and Zn ²⁺ however was inhibited by Ba ²⁺ and NH 4 ⁺ . Turmeric peroxidase was stable and retained close to 70% in the presence of 30% water immiscible organic solvents such as chloroform, n-hexane and petroleum ether. The combination of biochemical properties of purified turmeric POD would be of interest and applicability in several biotechnological properties.
... It is extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha medicine as home remedy for various diseases. Turmeric is native of South-East Asia and it is used as food additives (Spice), preservative and colouring agent in Asian countries including India, China, Taiwan, Srilanka, Bangladesh, Burma (Myanmar), Nigeria, Australia, West Indies, Peru, Jamaica and some other Caribbean and Latin American countries (Rathaur et al. 2012) [9] . With the advent of high yielding varieties, increased shift from organic-based nutrient application to chemical fertilizers took place. ...
... These include anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, anti-coagulant, anti-fertility, antimutagenic, anti-diabetic, anti-protozoal, antifungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, antioxidant, antivenom, anti-ulcer, hypotensive, and hypercholesteremia properties. [1] The patches know as transdermal drug delivery systems when applied topically releases the pharmaceuticals at a predetermined and regulated rate for systemic effects. An apparatus known as a transdermal therapeutic system releases drugs into the skin at a controlled pace that is significantly lower than the maximum rate that the tissue can tolerate. ...
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... For example, the anti-cancer drug paclitaxel is derived from the yew tree, and aspirin was initially developed from compounds found in willow bark [11]. Curcumin, a curcuminoid compound in Curcuma longa L., exhibits potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory action and is being investigated for its potential benefits in conditions such as arthritis, cancer and cardiovascular diseases [12]. Quercetin, a flavonoid in fruits and vegetables, has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral action and is explored for potential benefits in allergies, respiratory conditions, and cardiovascular health [13]. ...
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Aphthous Stomatis or mouth ulcer is the most common condition that we encounter clinically the lesions are single or multiple superficial and deep sealed and are associated with microbial invasions. Herbal gel formulated were stable, safe, and effective over to synthetic formulations for the treatment of mouth ulcer. Mouth ulcer often causes pain irritation of the sores salty, spicy, and sour food items and may cause discomfort while healing occurs due to use of chemical formulation. This project focused on the preparation of a herbal mouth ulcer healing gel because better cultural acceptability, better compatibility, with human body and less side effects. The gel was prepared by using alcoholic extract of Aloe barbadensis and Azadirachta indica leaves and extract powder of turmeric. Developed formulation were transparent, homogeneous and pH ranges from 6-8. Formulation showed acceptable rheological behaviour with applicable spreadability and Extrudability properties, however further clinical studies are required to established clinical efficacy of prepared herbal gels.
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The ability of curcumin, a natural antioxidant isolated from Curcuma longa, to inhibit hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cell damage in NG108-15 cells was examined. When added simultaneously with 500 μM H2O2, curcumin (25—100 μM) effectively protected cells from oxidative damage. However, when the cells were pretreated with curcumin (25—100 μM) for 1.5 h before H2O2 exposure, curcumin was unable to inhibit H2O2-induced cell damage. Instead, it caused a significant concentration-dependent decrease in cell viability after H2O2 exposure. This dual action of curcumin suggests that pretreatment with curcumin by itself did not have any significant effect on the viability of the NG108-15 cells, but it sensitized them to oxidative damage induced by H2O2 under our experimental conditions. It appears that these events may not relate to the antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of curcumin.
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A large variety of natural products have been described as anti-HIV agents, and for a portion thereof the target of interaction has been identified. Cyanovirin-N, a 11-kDa protein from Cyanobacterium (blue-green alga) irreversibly inactivates HIV and also aborts cell-to-cell fusion and transmission of HIV, due to its high-affinity interaction with gp120. Various sulfated polysaccharides extracted from seaweeds (i.e., Nothogenia fastigiata, Aghardhiella tenera) inhibit the virus adsorption process. Ingenol derivatives may inhibit virus adsorption at least in part through down-regulation of CD4 molecules on the host cells. Inhibition of virus adsorption by flavanoids such as (−)epicatechin and its 3-O-gallate has been attributed to an irreversible interaction with gp120 (although these compounds are also known as reverse transcriptase inhibitors). For the triterpene glycyrrhizin (extracted from the licorice root Glycyrrhiza radix) the mode of anti-HIV action may at least in part be attributed to interference with virus-cell binding. The mannose-specific plant lectins from Galanthus, Hippeastrum, Narcissus, Epipac tis helleborine, and Listera ovata, and the N-acetylgl ucosamine-specific lectin from Urtica dioica would primarily be targeted at the virus-cell fusion process. Various other natural products seem to qualify as HIV-cell fusion inhibitors: the siamycins [siamycin I (BMY-29304), siamycin II (RP 71955, BMY 29303), and NP-06 (FR901724)] which are tricyclic 21-amino-acid peptides isolated from Streptomyces spp that differ from one another only at position 4 or 17 (valine or isoleucine in each case); the betulinic acid derivative RPR 103611, and the peptides tachyplesin and polyphemusin which are highly abundant in hemocyte debris of the horseshoe crabs Tachypleus tridentatus and Limulus polyphemus, i.e., the 18-amino-acid peptide T22 from which T134 has been derived. Both T22 and T134 have been shown to block T-tropic X4 HIV-1 strains through a specific antagonism with the HIV corecept or CXCR4. A number of natural products have been reported to interact with the reverse transcriptase, i.e., baicalin, avarol, avarone, psychotrine, phloroglucinol derivatives, and, in particular, calanolides (from the tropical rainforest tree, Calophyllum lanigerum) and inophyllums (from the Malaysian tree, Calophyllum inophyllum). The natural marine substance illimaquinone would be targeted at the RNase H function of the reverse transcriptase. Curcumin (diferuloylmethane, from turmeric, the roots/rhizomes of Curcuma spp), dicaffeoylquinic and dicaffeoylt artaric acids, L-chicoric acid, and a number of fungal metabolites (equisetin, phomasetin, oteromycin, and integric acid) have all been proposed as HIV-1 integrase inhibitors. Yet, we have recently shown that L-c hicoric acid owes its anti-HIV activity to a specific interaction with the viral envelope gp120 rather than integrase. A number of compounds would be able to inhibit HIV-1 gene expression at the transcription level: the flavonoid chrysin (through inhibition of casein kinase II, the antibacter ial peptides melittin (from bee venom) and cecropin, and EM2487, a novel substance produced by Streptomyces. α-Trichosanthin (from the root tubers of Trichosanthes kirilowii), MAP30 (from Momordi ca charantia), GAP31 (from Gelonium multiflorum), DAP30 and DAP32 (from Dianthus caryophyllus) would act as RIPs (ribosome-i nactivating proteins), suppressing the translation process. As glycosylation inhibitors, castanospermine and 1-deoxynojirimycin would interfere with the infectivity and secondary spread of HIV-1. And so would bellenamine [(R)-3,6-diamino-N-(aminomethyl)hexanamide] (from Streptomyces nashvillensis), albeit by an unknown mechanism. Hypericin and pseudohype ricin, two aromatic polycyclic diones from Hypericum triquetrifolium (St. Johnswort), could block HIV-1 infection through a variety of mechanisms (direct virucidal effect, inhibition of secondary virus spread, inhibition of virus budding, and inactivation of the preintegration complex). A number of miscellaneous compounds, including propolis, pokeweed antiviral protein, and michellamines inhibit HIV replication by mechanisms that still have to be resolved. Cyclosporins do so by preventing the interaction of cyclophil in A with the capsid gag proteins, thus blocking both a late event (assembly) and early event (nuclear localization of the preintegration complex) in the HIV replicative cycle. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Med Res Rev, 20, No. 5, 323–349, 2000
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Anticancer activity of the rhizomes of turmeric was evaluated in vitro using tissue culture methods and in vivo in mice using Dalton's lymphoma cells grown as ascites form. Turmeric extract inhibited the cell growth in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells at a concentration of 0.4 mg/ml and was cytotoxic to lymphocytes and Dalton's lymphoma cells at the same concentration. Cytotoxic effect was found within 30 min at room temperature (30 degrees C). The active constituent was found to be 'curcumin' which showed cytotoxicity to lymphocytes and Dalton's lymphoma cells at a concentration of 4 micrograms/ml. Initial experiments indicated that turmeric extract and curcumin reduced the development of animal tumours.