CURCUMIN: A NATURAL PRODUCT OF BIOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

Abstract

Curcumin is a small molecular weight, polyphenolic compound, isolated from the roots of curcuma longa L. (family zingiberaceae), has been used traditionally for centuries in Asia for medicinal, culinary and other purposes. A large number of in vitro and in vivo studies in both animals and man have indicated that Curcumin has strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial, anti-parasitic and other activities. The mechanisms of some of these actions have recently been intensively investigated. Safety evaluation studies indicate Curcumin is well tolerated at a very high dose without any toxic effects. Thus, Curcumin has the potential for the development of modern medicine for the treatment of various diseases.