THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA) AND ITS ACTIVE COMPOUND CURCUMIN IN MODERN MEDICINE

Abstract

Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a golden-yellow spice derived from the rhizomes of the Zingiberaceae family, has long been a cornerstone of traditional medical systems including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its principal bioactive constituent, curcumin, has attracted extensive scientific interest due to its wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective activities, making it one of the most intensively investigated natural compounds in contemporary phytomedicine. Despite its therapeutic promise, clinical translation is limited by poor bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and low systemic absorption. Recent advances in drug delivery strategies—such as liposomal encapsulation, nanoparticle formulations, and the design of structural analogues—have sought to overcome these barriers and enhance curcumin’s therapeutic efficacy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical use, phytochemistry, mechanisms of action, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and limitations of turmeric and curcumin, highlighting their potential role in bridging traditional medicine with evidence-based modern therapeutics.

Herbal Medicine, Phytotherapy, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Neuroprotective, Cancer Treatment, Cardiovascular Health, Turmeric, Curcuma Longa, and Curcumin.