Health Benefits and Therapeutic Applications of Curcumin

Abstract

Curcumin [1,7-bis (4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1, 6-heptadiene 3,5-dione], the major yellow pigment extracted from turmeric has traditionally been used for treatment of inflammation and skin wounds. It has shown cancer chemoprotective, antineoplastic and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has also been reported to exhibit activities against cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. Curcumin exhibits a diverse array of metabolic, cellular and molecular activities that may individually or in combination have a number of therapeutic effects. The extensive information available on the activities of curcumin has been discussed under its anticancer properties, effect on atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction, and as other benefits.

Key words: :

• Curcumin
• Antioxidant
• Anti-Inflammatory
• Antiangiogenesis
• Apoptosis
• Colon Cancer
• Cardiovascular Effects