Curcumin

• Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound extracted from turmeric (Curcuma longa).
• It possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• As a dietary supplement, its primary purpose is to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• By modulating inflammation, curcumin aims to improve overall health, supporting joint health, cognitive function, and immune system regulation.

• Molecular Formula: C21H20O6
• IUPAC Name: (1E,6E)-1,7-Bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione

Key Structural Features:

• Bis-aryl heptadiene structure.
• Hydroxy (-OH) and methoxy (-OCH3) groups.
• Conjugated double bonds (responsible for yellow-orange color).
• Keto-enol tautomerism.

Properties:

• Physical properties: Bright yellow-orange crystalline powder, melting point 183°C, insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents.
• Chemical properties: Relatively stable, but degrades with light, heat, or oxygen; reacts with nucleophiles.
• Biological properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective activities.

Natural Sources:

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Primary source, containing curcumin (70-80%), demethoxycurcumin (15-20%), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (5-10%).
• Other Curcuma species: Curcuma zedoaria and Curcuma phaeocaulis (lower concentrations).

Extraction/Synthesis Methods:

• Solvent-based extraction (ethanol, methanol, acetone).
• Supercritical fluid extraction (high-pressure carbon dioxide).
• Enzyme-assisted extraction.
• Synthetic curcumin (less common).

Quality Considerations for Supplements:

• Purity: High curcumin content (95% or higher), minimal impurities.
• Bioavailability: Consider liposomes, nanoparticles, or piperine.
• Standardization: Consistent curcuminoid content.
• Manufacturing process: Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).