Therapeutic significance of curcumin and its role in cancer treatment
Journal Title: Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine - Year 2012, Vol 6, Issue 2
Abstract
Curcumin has been used for thousands of years in traditional Indian medicine. Recent in vitro and in vivo animal studies have demonstrated its numerous properties such as: anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antimalarial, antifungal, anaesthetic, chemopreventive, and antineoplastic. Thus, on account of the wide spectrum of properties, curcumin can contribute to modern medicine not only in the treatment of cancer or neurodegenerative diseases, but also in allergies, diabetics, joint diseases, Alzheimer’s, and a number of other chronic diseases. Therefore, most often it has been called the ‘spice for life’.Objective. To present a review of the literature on the potential usage of curcumin in the treatment of diseases of the oral cavity and other dental problems. Furthermore, it indicates the expectations of researchers towards the compound and emphasises its importance in prophylactics.Discussion. It is likely that a thorough examination of curcumin and its role in the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and allergies, may help to introduce new educational projects and preventive programmes for public health care. The introduction of prophylactics and early treatment could prevent possible complications and advanced stages of the diseases from occurring. On account of the extensive therapeutic properties, curcumin may be used by physicians of various specialities for health promotion. Thus, since health is the key to the development of every civilization, environmental implementation of the new prophylactic projects will improve the quality of life. Nevertheless, the problem of curcumin being rapidly metabolised along with the difficulties with reaching therapeutic levels without side-effects remains significant.Conclusion. Curcumin may be the new hope for reducing incidence of cancer.
Authors and Affiliations
Maciej Michalak, Michał Paulo, Kamil Pudło
Keywords
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