2014, Pages 785–789
Volume 1: Polyphenols in Chronic Diseases and their Mechanisms of Action
The rhizome of Curcuma longa
Linn [family: Zingiberaceae], commonly known as “turmeric,” is one of
the most regularly used spices, especially in the Indian subcontinent,
and is popularly known as the “curry spice.” In addition to its dietary
use, turmeric also has a long history of medicinal uses in the various
traditional and folk systems of medicine and is used to treat burns,
wounds, gastrointestinal ailments, heart conditions, arthritis, and
inflammatory conditions. Studies carried out in the past have validated
many of the ethnomedicinal observations; and observations indicate that
the validated properties of turmeric are mediated predominately by the
principle bioactive polyphenol curcumin. Preclinical and clinical
studies have also shown curcumin to possess myriad benefits, such as
turmeric used as an aid in arthritic diseases. The current review
compiles validated observations and addresses the mechanism responsible
for the beneficial effects of turmeric.
Keywords
- Curcuma longa Linn;
- osteoarthritis;
- rheumatoid arthritis;
- turmeric
Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
