Turmeric and its health benefits

Abstract

The yellow principle of the Indian Turmeric, ‘Haldi’ has recently attracted renewed interest in the field of experimental medicine with multiple activities. Turmeric is a popular gastronomic spice and herbal remedy, and there is a growing body of research relating to its therapeutic use. However, it is not clear which preparations of turmeric are most effective and for which disorders. Turmeric (Curcuma longa ) is a popular and widely used Indian rhizomatous medicinal plant from the family Zingiberaceae. Curcumin, Demethoxycurcumin (DMC), and Bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) are the constituents of the turmeric and are collectively known as curcuminoids. Turmeric is well-known for its different biological activities such as Anti-inflammatory, Anti-viral, Anti-oxidant, Anticancer, Anti-bacterial, Anti-asthmatic, Anti-arthritis, Anti-diabetic, Anti-venom, Antiobesity, Wound-healing, in depression and anxiety and other activities. Various clinical trials and their observations regarding these activities have been discussed here. Curcumin is existing in enolic form in organic solvents and as a keto form in water.