Formulation, development, and evaluation of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of a novel polyherbal mouthwash-An in vitro study

AIM

The aim of this study was to prepare a polyherbal mouthwash and evaluate its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficacy against commercially available herbal mouthwash. The objective was to signify whether the novel herbal combination (extracts of Zingiber officinale [ginger], Curcuma longa [turmeric], and Syzygium aromaticum [clove] 5% v/w) could be a better alternative to commercially available herbal mouthwashes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An in vitro study was undertaken in which extracts of Z. officinale (ginger), C. longa (turmeric), and S. aromaticum (clove) 5% v/w were used. Seven different concentrations were prepared and tested against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, and Staphylococcus aureus in Mueller-Hinton agar medium. Plates were incubated aerobically at 37° C for 48 h, and the zone of inhibition was measured using a vernier caliper. Commercially available herbal mouthwash (Hiora) was used as a control group. The data were analyzed by descriptive analytics.

RESULTS

Results showed that the efficacy of novel polyherbal mouthwash had comparatively less significant antimicrobial properties against the microorganisms as compared to the commercially available herbal mouthwash. The minimum inhibitory concentration was also found to be very high, that is, 100 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects for the polyherbal mouthwash as compared to commercially available herbal mouthwash (Hiora). Because this combination is readily available, it can be a cost-effective alternative to commercially available herbal mouthwashes.

Ayurvedic Herbal Therapies: A Review of Treatment and Management of Dementia

Dementia has been characterized by atypical neurological syndromes and several cognitive deficits, such as extended memory loss, strange behavior, unusual thinking, impaired judgment, impotence, and difficulty with daily living activities. Dementia is not a disease, but it is caused by several neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Lewy's bodies. Several drugs and remedies are indicated for alleviating unusual cognitive decline, but no effective pharmacological treatment regimens are available without side effects. Herbal drugs or traditional medicines like Ayurveda have been known for facilitating and corroborating the balance between mind, brain, body, and environment. Ayurvedic therapy comprises 600 herbal formulas, 250 single plant remedies, and natural and holistic health-giving treatments that relieve dementia in patients and increase vitality. Ayurvedic Rasayana herbs [rejuvenating elements] strengthen the brain cells, enhance memory, and decrease stress. The current medicine scenario in the treatment of dementia has prompted the shift in exploring the efficacy of ayurvedic medicine, its safety, and its efficiency. This review presents the literature on several herbal treatments for improving dementia symptomatology and patients' quality of life.

Curcuminoids for Metabolic Syndrome: Meta-Analysis Evidences Toward Personalized Prevention and Treatment Management

The metabolic syndrome (MS) is a multifactorial syndrome associated with a significant economic burden and healthcare costs. MS management often requires multiple treatments (polydrug) to ameliorate conditions such as diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, various therapeutics and possible drug-drug interactions may also increase the risk of MS by altering lipid and glucose metabolism and promoting weight gain. In addition, the medications cause side effects such as nausea, flatulence, bloating, insomnia, restlessness, asthenia, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, dizziness, and blurred vision. Therefore, is important to identify and develop new safe and effective agents based on a multi-target approach to treat and manage MS. Natural products, such as curcumin, have multi-modalities to simultaneously target several factors involved in the development of MS. This review discusses the recent preclinical and clinical findings, and up-to-date meta-analysis from Randomized Controlled Trials regarding the effects of curcumin on MS, as well as the metabonomics and a pharma-metabolomics outlook considering curcumin metabolites, the gut microbiome, and environment for a complementary personalized prevention and treatment for MS management.

Synergistic Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Ginger and Turmeric Extracts in Inhibiting Lipopolysaccharide and Interferon-γ-Induced Proinflammatory Mediators

This study aims to investigate the combined anti-inflammatory activity of ginger and turmeric extracts. By comparing the activities of individual and combined extracts in lipopolysaccharide and interferon-γ-induced murine RAW 264.7 cells, we demonstrated that ginger-turmeric combination was optimal at a specific ratio (5:2, w/w) in inhibiting nitric oxide, tumour necrosis factor and interleukin 6 with synergistic interaction (combination index < 1). The synergistic inhibitory effect on TNF was confirmed in human monocyte THP-1 cells. Ginger-turmeric combination (5:2, w/w) also upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2−related factor 2 activity and heme oxygenase-1 protein expression. Additionally, 6-shogaol, 8-shogaol, 10-shogaol and curcumin were the leading compounds in reducing major proinflammatory mediators and cytokines, and a simplified compound combination of 6-s, 10-s and curcumin showed the greatest potency in reducing LPS-induced NO production. Our study provides scientific evidence in support of the combined use of ginger and turmeric to alleviate inflammatory processes.

Anticonvulsant Effect of Turmeric and Resveratrol in Lithium/Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus in Wistar Rats

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that lacks a cure. The use of plant-derived antioxidant molecules such as those contained in turmeric powder and resveratrol may produce short-term anticonvulsant effects. A total of 42 three-month-old male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n = 7 in each group): Vehicle (purified water), turmeric (150 and 300 mg/kg, respectively), and resveratrol (30 and 60 mg/kg, respectively), administered per os (p.o.) every 24 h for 35 days. Carbamazepine (300 mg/kg/5 days) was used as a pharmacological control for anticonvulsant activity. At the end of the treatment, status epilepticus was induced using the lithium-pilocarpine model [3 mEq/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.) and 30 mg/kg subcutaneously (s.c.), respectively]. Seizures were evaluated using the Racine scale. The 300 mg/kg of turmeric and 60 mg/kg of resveratrol groups had an increased latency to the first generalized seizure. The groups treated with 150 and 300 mg/kg of turmeric and 60 mg/kg of resveratrol also had an increased latency to status epilepticus and a decreased number of generalized seizures compared to the vehicle group. The chronic administration of turmeric and resveratrol exerts anticonvulsant effects without producing kidney or liver damage. This suggests that both of these natural products of plant origin could work as adjuvants in the treatment of epilepsy.

Edible Bioactive Film with Curcumin: A Potential "Functional" Packaging?

Edible packaging has been developed as a biodegradable and non-toxic alternative to traditional petroleum-based food packaging. Biopolymeric edible films, in addition to their passive protective function, may also play a bioactive role as vehicles for bioactive compounds of importance to human health. In recent years, a new generation of edible food packaging has been developed to incorporate ingredients with functional potential that have beneficial effects on consumer health. Curcumin, a bioactive compound widely used as a natural dye obtained from turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa L.), has a broad spectrum of beneficial properties for human health, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and other activities. To demonstrate these properties, curcumin has been explored as a bioactive agent for the development of bioactive packaging, which can be referred to as functional packaging and used in food. The aim of this review was to describe the current and potential research on the development of functional-edible-films incorporating curcumin for applications such as food packaging.

The potential of curcumin for treating spinal cord injury: a meta-analysis study

INTRODUCTION

In this paper, we conducted a meta-analysis on the curcumin effect on functional recovery provided by the Basso, Beattie, Brenham (BBB) test for rats, and the Basso mouse scale (BMS) for mice after spinal cord injury (SCI) in animal models.

METHOD

Data mining was performed, and the standard mean difference (SMD) between the treated and control (untreated) groups was calculated using the STATA software. Quality control and subgroup analysis were performed.

RESULTS

The analysis includes 24 experimental studies that showed curcumin had a strong significance in improving functional recovery after SCI (SMD = 3.38; 95% CI: 2.54-4.22; p < 0.001). When curcumin was administered daily, it had a stronger effect than single-dose treatment or weekly administration. Despite the same effect in the follow-up time before and after 4 weeks post-injury, but later 9 weeks, curcumin had only a moderate effect. Curcumin also significantly reduced the expression of GFAP (Glial fibrillary acidic protein) marker compared to untreated groups.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that daily administration of curcumin can be an effective approach to improving functional recovery after SCI.

Antitumor Properties of Curcumin in Breast Cancer Based on Preclinical Studies: A Systematic Review

Simple Summary

Natural formulations and phytotherapies have shown promising antitumor activities. This review assesses the antitumor effects of curcumin on breast cancer. In particular, we discuss the effects of curcumin on the proliferation, viability, and apoptosis of breast cancer cell lineages and tumor volume. Studies have shown that curcumin administered at different concentrations inhibited proliferation, decreased viability, and induced apoptosis in human and animal breast cancer cells. Nanoparticle formulations of curcumin administered orally, via implant, or intraperitoneally reduced the tumor volume of human and murine mammary cells in vivo. Moreover, curcumin nanoformulations facilitate tumor growth inhibition in animal models of breast cancer. Randomized clinical trials are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin formulations for clinical use.

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most common neoplasms among women. Anticancer strategies using natural formulations and phytotherapies are promising antitumor treatment alternatives. This review assesses the antitumor effects of curcumin on breast cancer reported in preclinical in vitro and in vivo animal models. We used five databases to search for preclinical studies published up to May 2021. The assessments included the effects of curcumin on the proliferation, viability, and apoptosis of breast cancer cell lineages and on tumor volume. In total, 60 articles met the inclusion criteria. Curcumin administered at different concentrations and via different routes of administration inhibited proliferation, decreased viability, and induced apoptosis in human and animal breast cancer cells. Nanoparticle formulations of curcumin administered orally, via implant, and intraperitoneally reduced the tumor volume of human and murine mammary cells in vivo. Moreover, curcumin nanoformulations exert positive effects on tumor growth inhibition in animal models of breast cancer. Further randomized clinical trials are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin formulations for clinical use.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Oncology

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, after cardiovascular diseases. Increasing patients’ awareness and providing easier access to public information result in greater interest in alternative anticancer or unproven supportive therapies. Fear of cancer and limited trust in the treating physician are also important reasons leading patients to seek these methods. Trust and good communication are essential to achieving truthful collaboration between physicians and patients. Given the popularity of CAM, better knowledge about these alternative practices may help oncologists discuss this issue with their patients. This article objectively reviews the most common unconventional therapies used by cancer patients.

Evaluating the Nutritional and Immune Potentiating Characteristics of Unfermented and Fermented Turmeric Camel Milk in Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression in Rats

Antioxidative, nutritional, and immune-boosting characteristics of turmeric-camel milk (TCM) and fermented turmeric-camel milk (FTCM) were investigated. A cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression rat model consisting of six experimental groups was carried out to study the effects of TCM and FTCM on weight gain, antioxidant status, immunoglobulin (Igs), pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress biomarkers. TCM or FTCM were orally administrated at 10 or 20 mL Kg^-1 rat weight to CYP-immunosuppressed rats for 2 weeks in the presence of negative (NR) and positive (CYP) control groups. The phytochemical analysis and antioxidant capacity results indicated that TCM and FTCM contained considerable phenolic content with super antioxidant activities. CYP injection affected the rats' weight directly during the first week and then, a low weight gain percentage was recorded in treated groups at the end of the experiment. The most efficient treatment for recovering rats' weight was administering TCM and FTCM at 20 mL kg^-1. Feed efficiency significantly increased with feeding TCM and FTCM in a dose-dependent manner. A significant improvement was found in WBCs, lymphocytes, and neutrophils count, suggesting that both TCM and FTCM alleviated the CYP-induced immunity suppression in a dose-dependent manner. IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations in the CYP + TCM at 10 or 20 mL kg^-1 and CYP + FTCM at 10 or 20 mL kg^-1 groups were increased significantly. Concentrations of IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, and IL-TNF-α in the CYP group were significantly lower than in the NR group. Interestingly, both TCM and FTCM, especially with high doses, significantly enhanced cytokines production. Administrating FTCM was more potent than TCM, indicating that TCM with probiotics fermentation potentiated the immunological activity in immunosuppressed rats. Treated rats with TCM and FTCM can reverse CYP inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities, significantly increase GSH, CAT, and SOD, and decrease MDA levels in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, these observations indicated that FTCM exhibits better improvements in weight gain, increased immune biomarkers in terms of WBCs, enhanced pro-inflammation and anti-inflammation responses, and accelerated antioxidant activity in immunosuppressed rats compared with TCM. It could be beneficial and profitable for boosting immunity and protecting against oxidative stress.

Curcumin-Rich Curry Consumption and Neurocognitive Function from 4.5-Year Follow-Up of Community-Dwelling Older Adults (Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study)

The potential neurocognition protective effects of dietary curcumin in curry consumed with food was investigated in this study of 2734 community-dwelling adults (aged ≥ 55, mean ± SD: 65.9 ± 7.4). We analyzed longitudinal data of baseline curry consumption (“never or rarely”, “occasionally”: <once a month, “often”: >once a month and <once a week, “very often”: >once a week or daily) and baseline and 4.5-year follow-up cognitive function in mixed model analyses controlling for confounding risk factors. Significant between-exposure differences were found for Digit Span-Backward (DS-B), Verbal Fluency-Animals (VF-A) and Block Design (BD). Compared to “never or rarely” consumption, “very often” and “often” consumptions were associated with higher DS-B performance; “very often”—with higher VF-A, and “occasional”, “often” and “very often” consumptions—with higher BD: Cohen’s d: from 0.130 to 0.186. Among participants with cardiometabolic and cardiac diseases (CMVD), curry consumption was associated with significantly higher DS-B and VF-A. Among CMVD-free participants, curry consumption was associated with significantly higher DS-B, VF-A and BD: Cohen’s d: from 0.098 to 0.305. The consumption of dietary curcumin was associated with the maintenance over time of higher functioning on attention, short-term working memory, visual spatial constructional ability, language and executive function among community-dwelling older Asian adults.

Turmeric Extract (Curcuma longa) Mediates Anti-Oxidative Effects by Reduction of Nitric Oxide, iNOS Protein-, and mRNA-Synthesis in BV2 Microglial Cells

Plant-derived products have been used since the beginnings of human history to treat various pathological conditions. Practical experience as well as a growing body of research suggests the benefits of the use of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and some of its active components in the reduction of oxidative stress, a mechanism leading to neurodegeneration. In this current study, we investigated the effects of a preparation of Curcuma longa, and its constituents curcumin, tetrahydrocurcumin, and curcumenol, in one of the molecular pathways leading to oxidative stress, which is the release of NO, a free radical involved in stress conditions, using the BV2 microglial cell line. The concentration-dependent reduction of NO is linked to reduced amounts of iNOS protein- and mRNA-synthesis and is possibly mediated by the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) such as p42/44 or p38 MAPK. Therefore, the use of turmeric extract is a promising therapeutic option for diseases linked to the dysregulation of oxidative stress, with fewer side-effects in comparison to the currently used pharmacotherapeutics.

In Situ Compensation Method for Precise Integral SQUID Magnetometry of Miniscule Biological, Chemical, and Powder Specimens Requiring the Use of Capsules

Steadily growing interest in magnetic characterization of organic compounds for therapeutic purposes or of other irregularly shaped specimens calls for refinements of experimental methodology to satisfy experimental challenges. Encapsulation in capsules remains the method of choice, but its applicability in precise magnetometry is limited. This is particularly true for minute specimens in the single milligram range as they are outweighed by the capsules and are subject to large alignment errors. We present here a completely new experimental methodology that permits 30-fold in situ reduction of the signal of capsules by substantially restoring the symmetry of the sample holder that is otherwise broken by the presence of the capsule. In practical terms it means that the standard 30 mg capsule is seen by the magnetometer as approximately a 1 mg object, effectively opening the window for precise magnetometry of single milligram specimens. The method is shown to work down to 1.8 K and in the whole range of the magnetic fields. The method is demonstrated and validated using the reciprocal space option of MPMS-SQUID magnetometers; however, it can be easily incorporated in any magnetometer that can accommodate straw sample holders (i.e., the VSM-SQUID). Importantly, the improved sensitivity is accomplished relying only on the standard accessories and data reduction method provided by the SQUID manufacturer, eliminating the need for elaborate raw data manipulations.

Development of Cholesterol-Lowering and Detox Formulations Using Bentonite and Herbal Ingredients

Detoxification enzymes involved in human metabolism works to minimize the potential xenobiotic-induced damage constantly. Studies have revealed that toxin accumulation plays an important role in the etiology of cardiovascular disease. This study has been designed to provide evidence of medicinal use of bentonite, turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed, flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), and psyllium (Plantago ovata L.) as detoxification and cholesterol-lowering agents using a hypercholesterolemic model in mice. The potential hypocholesterolemic effects and detoxification ability of these ingredients were evaluated at the same time: Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, malondialdehyde, plasma total antioxidant activity, nitric acid, leptin levels and glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase and catalase values were measured. It was determined that GBTF group (grape seed extract, bentonite, turmeric, and flaxseed), GBTP group (grape seed extract, bentonite, turmeric, and psyllium), and GBT group (grape seed extract, bentonite, and turmeric) of the tested materials decreased the serum total cholesterol concentration by 64.8, 57.5, and 48.9%, respectively, in mice fed a high cholesterol diet. In addition, it was determined that some detoxification parameters such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase were statistically significantly reversed in GBTF, GBTP, and GBT groups. Flaxseed, psyllium, and bentonite clay did not show significant effects in reducing total cholesterol; however, GBTF, GBTP, and GBT groups interventions had a significant effect in reducing total cholesterol levels. Moreover, it was observed that adding flaxseed or psyllium to the GBT group increased the cholesterol-lowering effect. Therefore, it can be thought that this significant effect is due to the synergistic effect of the raw materials. When the results obtained were evaluated, it was seen that the cholesterol-lowering and detoxification effects of the combinations were higher than from the effect of natural material used alone. As a result, combinations of some of these ingredients have a positive effect on reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

An Investigation into the Effects of a Curcumin Extract (Curcugen®) on Osteoarthritis Pain of the Knee: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

Curcumin, a phytochemical from the spice turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have pain-relieving effects. In this 8-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 101 adults with knee osteoarthritis received either 500 mg twice daily of a standardised curcumin extract (Curcugen^®) or placebo. Outcome measures included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), knee pain ratings, Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score for Osteoarthritic Knees (JOA), PROMIS-29, and performance-based testing comprising the 40-m fast-paced walk test, 6-min walk test, timed up-and-go test, and 30-s chair stand test. Compared to the placebo, curcumin significantly reduced the KOOS knee pain score (p = 0.009) and numeric knee pain ratings (p = 0.001). Curcumin was also associated with greater improvements (p ≤ 0.05) than the placebo on the timed up-and-go test, 6-min walk test, and the JOA total score; but not the 30-s chair stand test or 40-m fast-paced walk test. Pain-relieving medication was reduced in 37% of participants on curcumin compared to 13% on placebo. The findings support the potential efficacy of curcumin for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee but studies of longer duration, varying treatment doses, differing curcumin extracts, and the use of other objective outcome measures will be helpful to expand on these findings.

Turmeric-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Report of 2 Cases

The use of herbal and dietary supplements is rising in the United States. Turmeric has been one of the most popular supplements recently, used widely for various conditions such as arthritis, digestive disorder, and liver conditions. Although rarely reported, hepatotoxicity can happen with turmeric use. Here, we present 2 cases of drug-induced liver injury due to turmeric use with the complete resolution after cessation.

Perspective on Improving the Relevance, Rigor, and Reproducibility of Botanical Clinical Trials: Lessons Learned From Turmeric Trials

Plant-derived compounds, without doubt, can have significant medicinal effects since many notable drugs in use today, such as morphine or taxol, were first isolated from botanical sources. When an isolated and purified phytochemical is developed as a pharmaceutical, the uniformity and appropriate use of the product are well defined. Less clear are the benefits and best use of plant-based dietary supplements or other formulations since these products, unlike traditional drugs, are chemically complex and variable in composition, even if derived from a single plant source. This perspective will summarize key points-including the premise of ethnobotanical and preclinical evidence, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and safety-inherent and unique to the study of botanical dietary supplements to be considered when planning or evaluating botanical clinical trials. Market forces and regulatory frameworks also affect clinical trial design since in the United States, for example, botanical dietary supplements cannot be marketed for disease treatment and submission of information on safety or efficacy is not required. Specific challenges are thus readily apparent both for consumers comparing available products for purchase, as well as for commercially sponsored vs. independent researchers planning clinical trials to evaluate medicinal effects of botanicals. Turmeric dietary supplements, a top selling botanical in the United States and focus of over 400 clinical trials to date, will be used throughout to illustrate both the promise and pitfalls associated with the clinical evaluation of botanicals.

Safety of tetrahydrocurcuminoids from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on tetrahydrocurcuminoids from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. Tetrahydrocurcuminoids are derivatives of curcuminoids, produced chemically by hydrogenation of curcuminoids extracted from the rhizomes of C. longa L. The NF consists of more than 95% of tetrahydrocurcuminoids. The applicant proposed to use the NF in food supplements at a maximum dose of 300 mg/day for adults excluding pregnant and lactating women. Taking into account the composition of the NF and the proposed conditions of use, consumption of the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous. There are no concerns regarding genotoxicity of the NF. Based on a 90-day oral toxicity study and a reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test performed with the NF, the Panel derives a safe level of 2 mg/kg body weight per day. For the target population this level corresponds to 140 mg/day, which is lower than the use level as proposed by the applicant. The Panel concludes that the NF, tetrahydrocurcuminoids from turmeric (C. longa L.), is safe for the target population at 140 mg/day.

The Effect of Curcumin Differs on Individual Cognitive Domains across Different Patient Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Curcumin is a polyphenol with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that has been shown to be effective in ameliorating cognitive decline in animal studies. However, its clinical effectiveness is inconclusive, and relevant gastrointestinal adverse events (AEs) have been reported. The aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize the existing evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of effects of curcumin on overall cognitive function, individual cognitive domains, and gastrointestinal AE. The study includes 8 RCTs and 389 participants. A random-effects model was used for the meta-analysis. Compared with the placebo group, the curcumin group was associated with an improvement in working memory (Hedges' g = 0.396, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.078 to 0.714, p = 0.015) and a borderline benefit in processing speed (Hedges' g = 0.303, 95% CI = -0.013 to 0.619, p = 0.06). In the domains of language, episodic memory/visual learning, verbal memory, cognitive flexibility/problem solving, and overall cognitive function, no significant difference existed for the comparison between the curcumin and placebo groups. The curcumin group had a significantly higher risk of gastrointestinal AEs than the placebo group (odds ratio = 3.019, 95% CI = 1.118 to 8.150, p = 0.029). In the future, the effects of curcumin on working memory, processing speed, and gastrointestinal AE should be further investigated.

Defensive potential and deleterious impact of turmeric (Curcuma longa) L rhizome powder supplemented diet on antioxidant status of indomethacin-induced ulcerated wistar rats

Effects of various concentration of turmeric (Curcuma longa [C longa]) rhizome powder (TRP) supplemented diet on the antioxidant status of selected organs (stomach, liver, kidney, and heart) of indomethacin (Indo)-induced ulcerated wistar rats were investigated in this study. The rats were fed with different percentages of TRP supplemented diet (1% [A], 2% [B], 5% [C], and 10% [D]) for 28 days. It was observed from the results that animals fed on 10% turmeric rhizome supplemented and those in the ulcerogenic group had significant reduction in kidney, cardiac gluthione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and gastric GSH when compared with normal control animals and other pre-treated groups. However, a significant increase was observed in gastric, hepatic, cardiac, and glutathione peroxidase (GPX); kidney and hepatic SOD; cardiac, kidney, hepatic, and gastric CAT of animals pre- treated with TRP supplemented diet (1%-5%) compared with ulcerogenic group. Also, a significant reduction was observed in GPX of animals fed with 10% TRP supplemented diet in comparison with ulcerogenic group. Consumption of TRP in the diet, therefore, should be lesser than 10% of the whole recipe for it to be potent in enhancing antioxidant defensive mechanism of the aforementioned organs and thereby prevent oxidative stress related diseases. It may reduce antioxidant present in those organs which can lead to increase availability of free radical and expose the organs to oxidative stress-related diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Inclusion of turmeric rhizome powder in daily diet has been globally well accepted due to the knowledge of its medicinal values. Nonetheless, the extent at which it should be consumed has been controversial and unclear. Little or no effort has been put in place to educate the populace on the quantity of concentration of C. longa powder which should be in whole recipe or ingredients. Therefore, if turmeric rhizome powder should be included in diet because of its nutritional and medicinal values, this should be with caution and from the results of this study, the concentration should not be up to 100g/kg w/w of the entire recipe.

Effects of curcumin on menstrual pattern, premenstrual syndrome, and dysmenorrhea: A triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and primary dysmenorrhea are common complaints among young women. This study evaluated the effects of curcumin supplements on symptoms of pain in young women with PMS and dysmenorrhea. A randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was undertaken. Women who suffered from both PMS and dysmenorrhea were enrolled, and were randomly allocated to the curcumin (n = 62), or placebo (n = 62) groups. Each subject received one capsule (500 mg of curcuminoid, or placebo) daily, from 7 days pre- until 3 days post-menstruation for three successive menstrual cycles. Participants recorded the severity of PMS, or dysmenorrhea using a Premenstrual Syndrome Screening Tool (PSST) and the visual analog scale, respectively. Baseline characteristics of participants did not differ between the curcumin and placebo groups. At the end of the trial, the PSST scores were significantly lower in both the curcumin (32.5 ± 9.8 vs. 21.6 ± 9.8); and placebo groups (31.7 ± 9.4 vs. 23.4 ± 12.8). There was a significant reduction of dysmenorrhea pain in both the curcumin and placebo groups (by 64% and 53.3%, respectively). Hence, curcumin had comparable effects as placebo, regarding the amelioration of symptoms of PMS and dysmenorrhea. Further studies are required with larger samples, using higher doses curcumin for longer durations, and perhaps in combination therapy.

Turmeric as a Possible Treatment for COVID-19-Induced Anosmia and Ageusia

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a calamitous perturbation of society worldwide. Anosmia and ageusia (or hyposmia and dysgeusia) have been recognized as two common expressions of COVID-19 infection that linger for days to weeks, and in rare cases are thought to be immutable. Time alone has hitherto proven most effective in their restoration, but turmeric, long believed by some to have medicinal properties, may be a swifter and surer alleviator of anosmia and ageusia. This case series reports the speedy and consequential restoration of taste and smell in two subjects infected with COVID-19 following ingestion of one 1000 mg dose of a turmeric supplement. In view of this, we propose that turmeric be considered in the treatment of anosmia and ageusia caused by COVID-19 infection.

Microparticles vs. Macroparticles as Curcumin Delivery Vehicles: Structural Studies and Cytotoxic Effect in Human Adenocarcinoma Cell Line (LoVo)

This study aimed to characterize the hydrogel micro- and macro-particles designed to deliver curcumin to human colon cancer cells (LoVo). Six series of vehicles based on sodium alginate (micro- and macro-particles, uncoated, coated with chitosan or gelatin) were synthesized. The uncoated microparticles were fabricated using an emulsion-based technique and the uncoated macroparticles with an extrusion technique, with both coupled with ionotropic gelation. The surface morphology of the particles was examined with scanning electron microscopy and the average size was measured. The encapsulation efficiency, moisture content, and swelling index were calculated. The release of curcumin from the particles was studied in an experiment simulating the conditions of the stomach, intestine, and colon. To evaluate the anticancer properties of such targeted drug delivery systems, the cytotoxicity of both curcumin-loaded and unloaded carriers to human colon cancer cells was assessed. The microparticles encapsulated much less of the payload than the macroparticles and released their content in a more prolonged manner. The unloaded carriers were not cytotoxic to LoVo cells, while the curcumin-loaded vehicles impaired their viability-more significantly after incubation with microparticles compared to macroparticles. Gelatin-coated or uncoated microparticles were the most promising carriers but their potential anticancer activity requires further thorough investigation.

Microwave-assisted Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Pretreatment Followed by Hydrodistillation Coupled with GC-MS for Analysis of Essential Oil from Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

In the past decade, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) as green and sustainable extraction solvents with great potential for the efficient extraction of bioactive compounds from the plants are emerging. In this study, a microwave-assisted technology is used to prepare natural deep eutectic solvents. And natural deep eutectic solvents as pretreatment solvents coupled with microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) for isolating essential oil (EO) derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is investigated. To improve the essential oil yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as a target, various factors affecting extraction efficiency including the type and amount of natural deep eutectic solvents, pretreatment time, pretreatment temperature and hydrodistillation (HD) time are discussed and optimized through central composite design (CCD) of the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal conditions are as follows: natural deep eutectic solvent composed of choline chloride and oxalic acid (molar ratio with 1:1) as a pretreatment solvent, an amount of 60 g, a pretreatment time of 5 min, a pretreatment temperature of 84 ºC, a hydrodistillation time of 76 min. Under the optimum conditions, the highest essential oil yield of 0.85% is achieved. Additionally, the essential oil is analyzed by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), with a total of 49 compounds being identified. Through combining natural deep eutectic solvents with a microwave-assisted hydrodistillation technique, this work provides an eco-friendly extraction way of isolating essential oil, which boosts development in the monitoring other spice quality field.

Rapid Determination and Quality Control of Pharmacological Volatiles of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) by Fast Gas Chromatography-Surface Acoustic Wave Sensor

Introduction: A novel analytical method using fast gas chromatography combined with surface acoustic wave sensor (GC-SAW) was developed for rapid determination of the pharmacological volatiles of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Methods: The volatile compounds in 20 turmeric samples, collected from different parts and different origins, were assessed by the fast GC-SAW. In addition, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed to confirm the chemical composition of the main volatiles. The digital fingerprint of turmeric was established and analysed by principal component analysis and cluster analysis. Results: Curcumene (9.1%), β-sesquiphellandrene (5.1%) and ar-turmerone (69.63%) were confirmed as the main pharmacological volatiles of turmeric. The content of ar-turmerone in lateral rhizome turmeric was significantly higher than that of top rhizome and ungrouped turmeric. The contents of curcumene and β-sesquiphellandrene in top rhizome turmeric were higher than those in lateral and ungrouped turmeric. The 20 turmeric samples were divided into four categories, which reflected the quality characteristics of the turmeric from different parts and origins. Conclusion: The GC-SAW method can rapidly and accurately detect pharmacologically volatiles of turmeric, and it can be used in the quality control of turmeric.