Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) volatile oil inhibits key enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Anti-diabetic capacity of Curcuma longa volatile oil in terms of its ability to inhibit glucosidase activities was evaluated. Turmeric volatile oils inhibited glucosidase enzymes more effectively than the reference standard drug acarbose. Drying of rhizomes was found to enhance α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 1.32–0.38 μg/ml) and α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 64.7–34.3 μg/ml) inhibitory capacities of volatile oils. Ar-Turmerone, the major volatile component in the rhizome also showed potent α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 0.28 μg) and α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 24.5 μg) inhibition.

Keywords::

• Curcuma longa
• volatile oil
• α-amylase
• α-glucosidase
• ar-turmerone

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.