Turmeric

Turmeric/Drug Interactions:

  • GeneralGeneral: Curcumin-drug interactions have been reviewed (484; 485). As an antioxidant, curcumin has been widely studied as a pharmacological means of mitigating the negative effects of a number of drugs and other treatments. Discussion of these and other such positive effects are generally reserved for the Mechanism of Action section, Pharmacology subheading.
  • AcetaminophenAcetaminophen: In in vitro research, curcumin inhibited P-form phenolsulfotransferase modification of acetaminophen (486).
  • Acetylcholinesterase inhibitorsAcetylcholinesterase inhibitors: Curcuminoids have been shown to possess acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity in animal research (487).
  • AmilorideAmiloride: In in vitro research, the hepatoprotective effects of curcumin and amiloride were superior to either alone (488).
  • AnalgesicsAnalgesics: In human research, turmeric resulted in decreased used of analgesics in postsurgical patients (401).
  • AntiarthriticsAntiarthritics: In animal research, turmeric inhibited joint inflammation and periarticular joint destruction; inflammatory cell influx, joint levels of prostaglandin E2, and periarticular osteoclast formation were also reduced (489).
  • AntibioticsAntibiotics: In animal research in a Klebsiella pneumoniae animal model, curcumin decreased lung inflammation and had antioxidative effects; however, bacterial load was only decreased when used in combination with an antibiotic (490). In laboratory research, an ethyl acetate extract of Curcuma longa L. markedly lowered the MICs of ampicillin and oxacillin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (66).
  • Anticoagulants and antiplateletsAnticoagulants and antiplatelets: In vitro and animal research has reported that turmeric may inhibit platelet aggregation (271; 277; 274; 275). According to a review, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding or potentiate the effects of warfarin (278). Secondary sources have also suggested antiplatelet activity (279).
  • AnticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants: In animal research, curcumin prevented the cognitive impairment induced by phenobarbitone and carbamazepine without affecting serum concentrations of these agents (491). Curcumin did not affect the anticonvulsant activity of sodium valproate but did protect against induced hepatotoxicity (492).
  • AntidepressantsAntidepressants: In animal research, curcumin increased brain serotonin (by inhibiting its metabolism through MAO-A enzyme inhibition) and dopamine; there were no effects on norepinephrine (493). Coadministration of piperine with curcumin was found to increase serotonin and curcumin levels. In separate research, curcumin had antidepressant-like effects on the serotonergic receptor-coupled AC-cAMP pathway (494). Antidepressant effects have been shown in other animal models (495; 496; 497; 498). Mechanisms of action include activation of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor/TrkB signaling pathway (499; 500), interaction with serotonin (1A/1B and 2C) receptors (501; 500), modulating effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and neurotrophin factor expressions (502), and inhibition of monoamine oxidase A activity (503).
  • AntidiabeticsAntidiabetics: In a diabetic patient, curcumin decreased blood sugar (258). In animal research, curcumin inhibited glucose and HbA1c levels, elevated plasma insulin, and improved dyslipidemia and antioxidant status (259; 260; 261; 262; 263; 264; 265; 504). In an animal study, turmeric extracts exhibited hypoglycemic effects on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic mice (267). In animal research, fenugreek seed mucilage and spent turmeric (no curcumin) ameliorated intestinal disaccharide levels in diabetic rats; maltase was the most affected (505). In animal research, a combination of vitamin C and curcumin was more effective than curcumin alone in preserving endothelial cell function in diabetic rats via antioxidant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic actions (262). In an obese animal model, curcumin reduced glucose levels and insulin (266). Administration of tetrahydrocurcumin and curcumin to diabetic rats resulted in decreased levels of blood glucose (506).
  • AntifungalsAntifungals: Curcumin completely inhibited mycelial growth of Aspergillusalliaceus isolate 791 at 0.1% (w/v) and decreased ochratoxin A production by approximately 70% at 0.01% (w/v) (507).
  • AntihypertensivesAntihypertensives: According to animal evidence, curcumin may cause transient hypotension (268; 110). Administering turmeric oil to healthy volunteers daily for three months, however, did not show any effect on pulse and blood pressure (77). In laboratory research, five extracts of various turmeric species, including Curcuma longa, had vasorelaxant effects on precontracted vascular smooth muscle (269). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • Anti-inflammatoriesAnti-inflammatories: In animal and in vitro research, turmeric and its constituent curcumin have shown various anti-inflammatory effects (474; 508; 270; 271; 509; 510; 511; 512; 272; 276; 277; 513; 514; 515; 516).
  • AntilipemicsAntilipemics: Animal research has suggested that turmeric may decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL), increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and decrease serum lipid peroxides (282; 283); however, in human research, serum lipid levels were not significantly altered in response to turmeric oil (77) or curcumin (517). Curcumin has also been shown to elevate levels of HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I in high-fat-fed hamsters (319; 518; 519; 520). The hypolipidemic effects of curcumin have been demonstrated in a number of other animal studies as well (521; 522; 319; 518; 523; 524; 519; 520; 525; 526).
  • AntimalarialsAntimalarials: According to in vitro research, a combination of artemisinin and diarylheptanoids such as curcumin may have antimalarial effects (527; 528; 529). These effects were not shown in all studies (530).
  • AntineoplasticsAntineoplastics: In humans, addition of turmeric powder to imatinib therapy in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia decreased nitric oxide levels (531). According to in vitro and animal research, curcumin may have additive anticancer activity with other antineoplastic treatments, such as Bacillus Calmette-Gu?rin (532), bortezomib (533; 534), capecitabine (535), cisplatin (536; 537), cyclophosphamide (538), doxorubicin (539; 540; 541; 542), gemcitabine (543; 544; 545; 546), radiation (547; 548; 549; 550; 551; 552), Indian toad (Bufo melanostictus Schneider) skin-derived factor (BM-ANF1) (553), TRAIL regimen (554; 555; 556; 557; 558; 559; 560; 561; 562), xanthorrhizol (563), letrozole (564; 565), 5-flurocytosine/cytosine deaminase-uracil phosphoribosyltransferase (566; 567; 568), 5-fluorouracil or 5-flurouracil and oxaliplatin (569; 570; 571; 572; 573), phenylethylisothiocyanate (574), suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (358), vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (575), and others (576; 577; 578; 579; 580; 581; 582; 583; 584; 585; 586). According to secondary sources, curcumin may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation (279). Multiple preclinical studies have explored the potential anticancer and chemoprotective mechanisms of turmeric and its constituent curcumin (587; 345; 588; 589; 590; 591; 592; 593; 594; 595; 76; 596; 597; 598; 77; 599; 600; 402; 601; 348; 602; 603; 604; 605). In animal research, curcumin inhibited prostate tumor cell growth by displacing estradiol binding (314). In animal research, curcumin protected against Adriamycin?-induced renal injury (606). Mitomycin-induced side effects may be reduced by curcumin (607; 608).
  • Antiobesity agentsAntiobesity agents: In in vitro and animal research, curcumin inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and angiogenesis and obesity in C57/BL mice (609). Also, in an obese animal model, curcumin reduced weight and the content of lipocyte; blood sugar, insulin, leptin, and TNF-alpha were also reduced (266). In animal research, curcumin reduced body weight (317).
  • AntiparasiticsAntiparasitics: In animal and in vitro research, curcumin or turmeric extract has shown antiparasitic activity (610; 611; 612; 613; 614; 615; 616; 617; 618; 619; 620; 621; 622; 623; 624).
  • AntiviralsAntivirals: In in vitro research, curcumin and turmeric extracts had antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus (625), hepatitis B virus (626; 627), HIV (628), and others (629; 630; 631). In in vitro research, synthetic conjugates of curcumin had antiviral activity against some, but not all, viruses tested (632; 633).
  • Calcium channel blockersCalcium channel blockers: In human research, consumption of turmeric with nifedipine did not alter the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of the drug (634).
  • Cardiovascular agentsCardiovascular agents: Transient hypotension has been noted in dogs following the administration of curcumin (268). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110). Administering healthy volunteers turmeric oil daily for three months, however, did not show any effect on pulse and blood pressure (77). According to animal research, curcumin may have antiatherosclerotic effects (635; 636; 637).
  • CelecoxibCelecoxib: According to animal and in vitro research, a combination of celecoxib and curcumin may augment the effects of celecoxib (638; 639; 640; 641; 642).
  • CiprofloxacinCiprofloxacin: In animal research, the administration of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole in combination with curcumin failed to prevent tissue injury in acute pancreatitis; however, free radical injury and bacterial translocation were reduced (643).
  • CisplatinCisplatin: According to in vitro research, curcumin may sensitize certain cancer cells to cisplatin-induced apoptosis (536; 644; 645). In animal and in vitro study, curcumin enhanced the effects of cisplatin or reduced the need for cisplatin (537; 646). According to animal research, curcumin may reduce cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity (647); however, not all findings have been positive (648). According to in vitro research, curcumin may reduce cisplatin-induced oxidative damage (649) and alter liver enzyme levels (650).
  • CyclodextrinCyclodextrin: A cyclodextrin complexation of curcumin exhibited anti-inflammatory properties in an induced-colitis rat model (651).
  • CyclophosphamideCyclophosphamide: According to in vitro research, curcumin may have synergistic apoptotic effects with cyclophosphamide (538).
  • CyclosporineCyclosporine: According to both in vitro and animal research, the combination of curcumin and cyclosporine may induce greater immunosuppressive effects than either alone (652). In animal research, curcumin was unable to prevent cyclosporine-induced cholestasis and hyperlipidemia (653; 654; 655) but did protect against some cyclosporine-induced renal toxicity (656).
  • Cytochrome P450-modifying agentsCytochrome P450-modifying agents: In rats, curcumin has been reported to be a potent inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1/1A2, a less potent inhibitor of CYP 2B1/2B2, and a weak inhibitor of CYP 2E1 (344). Inhibition of cytochrome P450 has also been demonstrated in vitro and in other animal research (345; 346; 347; 348; 349; 350; 351; 352; 353; 354; 355; 356; 357). Human data are lacking. In laboratory research, curcumin did not appear to have significant effects on the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (657; 658; 659; 312); however, other research has indicated suppression of P450 enzymes (660). According to in vitro research, curcumin may stimulate transcription of CYP3A4 (661). In healthy humans, 4g curcuminoids plus 24mg piperine administered for two days was not reported to alter the metabolism of midazolam, a CYP3A probe, or flurbiprofen, a CYP2C9 probe(662).
  • DimethylsulphoxideDimethylsulphoxide: In animal research, cosupplementation with dimethylsulphoxide (DMSA) and curcumin reduced the level of reactive oxygen species and protein carbonylation (663).
  • DocetaxelDocetaxel: In animal research, curcumin enhanced the oral bioavailability of docetaxel (361).
  • Drugs used for osteoporosisDrugs used for osteoporosis: In animal research, curcumin increased bone marrow cellularity and alpha-esterase positive cells (664). In animal research, curcumin suppressed increased bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes (665). In APP/PS1 transgenic mice, curcumin improved bone microarchitecture and enhanced mineral density (666). A curcumin-rich turmeric compound, but not a curcumin-poor one, protected bone density in an animal model (667). Curcumin was not shown to increase bone mass in all animal studies (668).
  • ErythromycinErythromycin: In laboratory research, a combination of curcumin and erythromycin had stronger effects on multidrug resistance reversal in K562/A02 cell lines than did either alone (669).
  • Erythropoietin (EPO)Erythropoietin (EPO): According to animal research, the combination of EPO and curcumin may have synergistic effects with respect to liver regeneration (670).
  • Fertility agentsFertility agents: Animal research has indicated that Curcuma longa may exert antispermatogenic effects and suppress fertility (82). Curcumin caused a decrease in sperm forward motility (murine and human), capacitation/acrosome reaction, and murine fertilization in vitro (359). Curcumin derivatives showed antifertility effects in vitro (360).
  • FluorideFluoride: According to animal research, turmeric reduced the oxidative central nervous system effects of fluoride exposure (671).
  • Gastrointestinal agentsGastrointestinal agents: In human research, addition of turmeric to Indian cuisine increased bowel motility and carbohydrate colonic fermentation (672). In animals, decreased intestinal motility in response to curcumin was shown (97). Reduced gastric inflammation and antiulcer effects have been shown in animal research using turmeric or its constituents (673; 104; 674; 675).
  • HepatotoxinsHepatotoxins: Curcumin has been reported to induce abnormalities in liver function tests in rats and may be mildly hepatotoxic in high doses (320). However, other animal research has indicated that turmeric may also have hepatoprotective effects (321; 322; 323; 324; 325; 326; 327; 328; 329; 330; 331; 332; 333; 334; 335; 336; 337; 338; 339; 340; 341; 342; 343).
  • Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitorsHistone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors: In vitro, a combination of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid and curcumin were found to coenhance histone acetylation (358).
  • Hormonal agentsHormonal agents: In animal research, curcumin displaced estradiol binding (314), inhibited stress-induced corticosterone increases (315), reduced serum prolactin (317), and suppressed leptin levels (266; 319). In other animal research, curcuminoids decreased levels of gastrin (316). In in vitro research in endocrine pituitary tumor cell lines, growth hormone, ACTH, and prolactin production were inhibited by curcumin (318). In vitro, curcumin reduced the proliferative effect of estradiol in a cancer cell line (676). In human research, a combination botanical supplement (Curcuma longa, Cynara scolymus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Schisandra chinensis, Silybum marinum, and Taraxacum officinalis) decreased dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, and estrone sulfate in healthy premenopausal women (677).
  • ImmunosuppressantsImmunosuppressants: Curcumin has been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects in animals (290; 291; 292; 293; 294; 295) and immunosuppressant effects in vitro (296; 297; 298; 299; 300).
  • MetronidazoleMetronidazole: In animal research, the administration of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole in combination with curcumin failed to prevent tissue injury in acute pancreatitis; however, free radical injury and prevalence of bacterial translocation were reduced (643). In animal research, curcumin protected spermatocytes following treatment with metronidazole (678).
  • MorphineMorphine: In animal research, curcumin abolished morphine analgesic tolerance (679).
  • Muscle relaxantsMuscle relaxants: In animal research, curcumin increased time to fatigue in mice running downhill, which was associated with decreased inflammatory cytokines and creatine kinase levels (680). In animal research, curcumin or turmeric induced smooth muscle relaxant effects (681; 682).
  • Neurologic agentsNeurologic agents: In animal research, dietary supplementation with turmeric protected against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-mediated neurotoxicity (144). Curcumin and other curcuminoids may play a role in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and memory loss, as suggested by preliminary research (683; 684; 685; 686; 687; 688; 689; 690; 691; 692; 693; 694). Other neuroprotective effects of curcumin have been shown in animal and in vitro research (695; 696; 697; 698; 699; 700; 701; 702; 703; 704; 705; 706; 707; 708; 709; 710; 711; 712; 713; 714; 715).
  • NifedipineNifedipine: In human research, consumption of turmeric with nifedipine did not alter the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of the drug (634).
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatoriess (NSAIDs)Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatoriess (NSAIDs): Turmeric and its constituent curcumin have been found to inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase in rat tissues and in vitro (270; 271; 272), as well as thromboxane B2 (277) and leukotriene B4 formation (508; 270). In animal research, the use of curcumin with diclofenac (an NSAID) resulted in synergistic effects (716). In animal research, the combination of subeffective doses of curcumin and aspirin or rofecoxib resulted in synergistic anti-inflammatory effects, accompanied by decreased levels of TNF-alpha (717). In a controlled study, Meriva?, a compound containing a natural curcuminoid mixture (20%), phosphatidylcholine (40%), and microcrystalline cellulose (40%), with the composition of the curcuminoid mixture being 75% curcumin, 15% demethoxycurcumin, and 10% bisdemethoxycurcumin, reduced the need for NSAID medication in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (718).
  • NorfloxacinNorfloxacin: In animal research, curcumin-treated rabbits had significantly higher area under the plasma concentration time curve and area under the first moment of plasma drug concentration-time curve for norfloxacin; the elimination half-life and volume of distribution were also increased (719).
  • OxaliplatinOxaliplatin: In laboratory research, curcumin in combination with oxaliplatin exhibited a more potent antiapoptotic effect than did oxaliplatin alone (720; 645).
  • PaclitaxelPaclitaxel: In laboratory research, curcumin in combination with paclitaxel induced significantly greater levels of apoptosis and suppression of cell growth, compared with either agent alone (721). In addition, coadministration of curcumin with paclitaxel was found to increase cytotoxicity in vitro (722; 723) and increase anticancer effects in animal models (586). In animal research, curcumin increased bioavailability and therapeutic effects of paclitaxel (724).
  • ParacetamolParacetamol: In animal research, curcumin protected against negative effects of paracetamol on liver and kidney (725). In healthy humans, 4g curcuminoids plus 24mg piperine administered for two days was not reported to alter the metabolism of paracetamol (662).
  • P-glycoprotein regulated agentssP-glycoprotein regulated agentss: Curcuminoids from Curcuma longa L. have been found to have both inhibitory and stimulatory effects on p-glycoprotein (301; 302; 303; 304; 305; 306; 307; 308; 309; 310; 311; 312; 313). Theoretically, curcumin may alter levels of p-glycoprotein substrates (301). Curcumin's effects on p-glycoprotein function and expression in vivo have been reviewed (726).
  • Polyethylene glycosylated curcuminPolyethylene glycosylated curcumin: The anticancer effects of curcumin were found to be increased in vitro when glycosylated with polyethylene glycol (727).
  • PraziquantelPraziquantel: In animal research, curcumin protected against oxidative stress induced by praziquantel (728).
  • PrulifloxacinPrulifloxacin: According to human research, a combination of quercetin and curcumin may improve the clinical efficacy of prulifloxacin (146).
  • RapamycinRapamycin: According to in vitro research, a combination of rapamycin and curcumin may induce apoptosis in primary resting B chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells (729). Additionally, the inclusion of curcumin in rapamycin-loaded stents may decrease platelet adhesion and activation, prolong APTT clotting time, and decrease the fibrinogen adsorption (730).
  • RetinolRetinol: According to in vitro research, curcumin may have synergistic antiproliferative effects with retinoic acid (731).
  • RitonavirRitonavir: In laboratory research, curcumin blocked vasomotor dysfunction induced by ritonavir, an HIV protease inhibitor, likely via antioxidant activity (732).
  • SulfasalazineSulfasalazine: In humans, administration of curcumin has been reported to increase the area under the curve of plasma sulfasalazine (733).
  • SulfinosineSulfinosine: According to in vitro research, curcumin and sulfinosine may have synergistic cytotoxic effects on lung cancer cells (734).
  • Sulindac sulfoneSulindac sulfone: In vitro, curcumin potentiated the apoptotic effects of sulindac sulfone (735).
  • TacrolimusTacrolimus: According to case reports, an interaction between turmeric and tacrolimus is possible (736). Further details are not available at this time.
  • TalinololTalinolol: According to human research, curcumin may reduce the bioavailability of talinolol (737).
  • TamoxifenTamoxifen: According to animal research, a combination of turmeric and tamoxifen may decrease the volume and VEGF expression of ectopic implants (738).
  • TaxolTaxol: According to in vitro research, curcumin and taxol may offer increased benefit when used in combination (739).
  • ThalidomideThalidomide: In animal research, curcumin was found to potentiate the effect of thalidomide against human multiple myeloma in a nude mouse model (534).
  • Trichostatin ATrichostatin A: In laboratory research, curcumin and trichostatin A combined exhibited enhanced anticancer activity relative to either agent alone (740).
  • VasodilatorsVasodilators: In laboratory research, five extracts of various turmeric species, including Curcuma longa, were observed to have vasorelaxant effects on precontracted vascular smooth muscle (269). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • VinorelbineVinorelbine: In in vitro research, curcumin enhanced apoptosis in response to vinorelbine (741).
  • WarfarinWarfarin: According to a review, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding or potentiate the effects of warfarin (278).

    • Turmeric/Herb/Supplement Interactions:

  • AntiarthriticsAntiarthritics: In animal research, turmeric inhibited joint inflammation and periarticular joint destruction; inflammatory cell influx, joint levels of prostaglandin E2, and periarticular osteoclast formation were also reduced (489).
  • AntibacterialsAntibacterials: In animal research in a Klebsiella pneumoniae animal model, curcumin decreased lung inflammation and had antioxidative effects; however, bacterial load was only decreased when used in combination with an antibiotic (490). In laboratory research, an ethyl acetate extract of Curcuma longa L. markedly lowered the MICs of ampicillin and oxacillin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (66).
  • Anticoagulants and antiplateletsAnticoagulants and antiplatelets: In vitro and animal research has reported that turmeric may inhibit platelet aggregation (271; 277; 274; 275). Secondary sources have also suggested antiplatelet activity (279).
  • AnticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants: In animal research, curcumin prevented the cognitive impairment induced by phenobarbitone and carbamazepine without affecting serum concentrations of these agents (491).
  • AntidepressantsAntidepressants: In animal research, curcumin increased brain serotonin (by inhibiting its metabolism through MAO-A enzyme inhibition) and dopamine; there were no effects on norepinephrine (493). Coadministration of piperine with curcumin was found to increase serotonin and curcumin levels. In separate research, curcumin had antidepressant-like effects on the serotonergic receptor-coupled AC-cAMP pathway (494). Antidepressant effects have been shown in other animal models (495; 496; 497). Mechanisms of action include activation of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor/TrkB signaling pathway (499; 500), interaction with serotonin (1A/1B and 2C) receptors (501; 500), modulating effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and neurotrophin factor expressions (502), and inhibition of monoamine oxidase A activity (503).
  • AntifungalsAntifungals: Curcumin completely inhibited mycelial growth of Aspergillusalliaceus isolate 791 at 0.1% (w/v) and decreased ochratoxin A production by approximately 70% at 0.01% (w/v) (507).
  • Anti-inflammatoriesAnti-inflammatories: In animal and in vitro research, turmeric and its constituent curcumin have shown various anti-inflammatory effects (474; 508; 270; 271; 509; 510; 511; 512; 272; 276; 277; 513; 514; 515; 516).
  • AntilipemicsAntilipemics: Animal research has suggested that turmeric may decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL), increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and decrease serum lipid peroxides (282; 283); however, in human research, serum lipid levels were not significantly altered in response to turmeric oil (77) or curcumin (517). Curcumin has also been shown to elevate levels of HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I in high-fat-fed hamsters (319; 518; 519; 520). The hypolipidemic effects of curcumin have been demonstrated in a number of other animal studies as well (521; 522; 319; 518; 523; 524; 519; 520; 525; 526). In animal research, a combination of vitamin C and curcumin was more effective than curcumin alone in preserving endothelial cell function in diabetic rats via antioxidant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic actions (262).
  • Antilithogenic agentsAntilithogenic agents: In animal research, curcumin had antilithogenic effects on cholesterol gallstones (742).
  • AntimalarialsAntimalarials: According to in vitro research, a combination of artemisinin and diarylheptanoids such as curcumin may have antimalarial effects (527; 528; 529). These effects were not shown in all studies (530).
  • AntineoplasticsAntineoplastics: >: In humans, addition of turmeric powder to imatinib therapy in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia decreased nitric oxide levels (531). According to in vitro and animal research, curcumin may have additive anticancer activity with other antineoplastic treatments such as Bacillus Calmette-Gu?rin (532), bortezomib (533; 534), capecitabine (535), cisplatin (536), cyclophosphamide (538), doxorubicin (539; 540; 541; 542), gemcitabine (543; 544; 545; 546), radiation (547; 548; 549; 550; 551; 552), Indian toad (Bufo melanostictus Schneider) skin-derived factor (BM-ANF1) (553), TRAIL regimen (554; 555; 556; 557; 558; 559; 560; 561; 562), xanthorrhizol (563), letrozole (564; 565), 5-flurocytosine/cytosine deaminase-uracil phosphoribosyltransferase (566; 567; 568), 5-fluorouracil or 5-flurouracil and oxaliplatin (569; 570; 571; 572; 573), phenylethylisothiocyanate (574), taxane (according to a review) (743), suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (358), vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (575), and others (576; 577; 578; 579; 580; 581; 582; 583; 586). According to secondary sources, curcumin may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation (279). Multiple preclinical studies have explored potential anticancer and chemoprotective mechanisms of turmeric and its constituent curcumin (587; 345; 588; 589; 590; 591; 592; 593; 594; 595; 76; 596; 597; 598; 77; 599; 600; 402; 601; 348; 602; 603; 604; 605). In animal research, curcumin inhibited prostate tumor cell growth by displacing estradiol binding (314). In animal research, curcumin protected against induced renal injury (606). Mitomycin-induced side effects may be reduced by curcumin (607; 608).
  • Antiobesity agentsAntiobesity agents: In in vitro and animal research, curcumin inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and angiogenesis and obesity in C57/BL mice (609). Also, in an obese animal model, curcumin reduced weight and the content of lipocytes; blood sugar, insulin, leptin, and TNF-alpha were also reduced (266). In animal research, curcumin reduced body weight (317).
  • AntioxidantsAntioxidants: Turmeric's antioxidant properties have been demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo (in animals) (744; 745; 746; 747; 748; 749; 750; 751; 515). In in vitro research, water-soluble antioxidants, such as vitamin C and N-acetyl cysteine, enhanced the antioxidant and anticancer effects of curcumin (752). In human research, (in patients with oral leukoplakia), curcumin resulted in decreased malondialdehyde and 8-OHdG (753).
  • AntiparasiticsAntiparasitics: In animal and in vitro research, curcumin or turmeric extract showed antiparasitic activity (610; 611; 612; 613; 614; 615; 616; 617; 618; 619; 620; 621; 622; 623; 624).
  • AntiviralsAntivirals: In in vitro research, curcumin and turmeric extracts had antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus (625), hepatitis B virus (626; 627), HIV (628), and others (629; 630; 631). In in vitro research, synthetic conjugates of curcumin had antiviral activity against some, but not all, viruses tested (632; 633).
  • Betel leaf extractBetel leaf extract: In animal research, curcumin and betel leaf extract in combination had greater anticancer effects than did either constituent alone (754).
  • CapsaicinCapsaicin: In animal research, curcumin and capsaicin had additive effects on the enhancement of glutathione reductase (742).
  • Cardiovascular herbs and supplementsCardiovascular herbs and supplements: Transient hypotension has been noted in dogs following the administration of curcumin (268). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110). Administering healthy volunteers turmeric oil daily for three months, however, did not show any effect on pulse and blood pressure (77). According to animal research, curcumin may have antiatherosclerotic effects (635; 636; 637).
  • CatechinCatechin: In animal research, curcumin or turmeric and catechin were observed to have synergistic anticancer effects (755; 756).
  • CobaltCobalt: In in vitro research, CoCl2 decreased the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of curcumin (757).
  • CopperCopper: According to in vitro research, curcumin may exert a genoprotective effect against DNA damage in the presence of copper (758). However, other laboratory research has suggested that the presence of copper may increase DNA damage caused by curcumin (759; 760) or reduce its anticancer effects (761). Other studies have reported a copper-curcumin complex to have superior antioxidant properties in animals and in vitro compared to curcumin alone (762; 763; 764).
  • Cytochrome P450-metabolized herbs and supplementsCytochrome P450-metabolized herbs and supplements: In rats, curcumin has been reported to be a potent inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1/1A2, a less potent inhibitor of CYP 2B1/2B2, and a weak inhibitor of CYP 2E1 (344). Inhibition of cytochrome P450 has also been demonstrated in vitro and in other animal research (345; 346; 347; 348; 349; 350; 351; 352; 353; 354; 355; 356; 357). Human data are lacking. In laboratory research, curcumin did not appear to have significant effects on the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (657; 658; 659); however, other research has indicated suppression of P450 enzymes (660). According to in vitro research, curcumin may stimulate transcription of CYP3A4 (661).
  • DanshensuDanshensu: In animal research, turmeric increased the concentrations of danshensu in the brain following radix Salviae miltiorrhizae use (765).
  • Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG): The combination of EGCG and curcumin has been observed to have anticancer effects in animal and in vitro models (766; 767; 768). In normal human keratinocytes, curcumin antagonized the EGCG-dependent signaling pathway (769). According to in vitro research, curcumin may increase EGCG accumulation (770).
  • FenugreekFenugreek: In animal research, fenugreek seed mucilage and spent turmeric (no curcumin) ameliorated intestinal disaccharide levels; maltase was the most affected (505).
  • Fertility agentsFertility agents: Animal research has indicated that Curcuma longa may exert antispermatogenic effects and suppress fertility (82). Curcumin caused a decrease in sperm forward motility (murine and human), capacitation/acrosome reaction, and murine fertilization in vitro (359). Curcumin derivatives showed antifertility effects in vitro (360).
  • Fish oilFish oil: In animal research, fish oil enhanced the curcumin-induced suppression of CD4(+) T-cell proliferation (771).
  • Garlic: In animal research, the combination of saffron, curcumin, and garlic had more pronounced anticancer effects than did each agent alone (772).
  • Gastrointestinal agentsGastrointestinal agents: In human research, addition of turmeric to Indian cuisine increased bowel motility and carbohydrate colonic fermentation (672). In animals, decreased intestinal motility in response to curcumin was shown (97). Reduced gastric inflammation and antiulcer effects have been shown in animal research using turmeric or its constituents (673; 104; 674; 675).
  • GenisteinGenistein: According to laboratory research, a combination of genistein and curcumin may have additive anticancer effects in breast tumor cells (773).
  • Green teaGreen tea: In animal research, the coadministration of green tea and curcumin inhibited oral carcinogenesis at the postinitiation stage (774; 775; 776). Efficacy against B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia has also been noted (777).
  • Hepatotoxic herbs and supplementsHepatotoxic herbs and supplements: Curcumin has been reported to induce abnormalities in liver function tests in rats and may be mildly hepatotoxic in high doses (320). However, other animal research has indicated that turmeric may also have hepatoprotective effects (321; 322; 323; 324; 325; 326; 327; 328; 329; 330; 331; 332; 333; 334; 335; 336; 337; 338; 339; 340; 341; 342; 343).
  • Hormonal herbs and supplementsHormonal herbs and supplements: In animal research, curcumin displaced estradiol binding (314), inhibited stress-induced corticosterone increases (315), reduced serum prolactin (317), and suppressed leptin levels (266; 319). In other animal research, curcuminoids decreased levels of gastrin (316). In in vitro research in endocrine pituitary tumor cell lines, growth hormone, ACTH, and prolactin production were inhibited by curcumin (318). In human research, a combination botanical supplement (Curcuma longa, Cynara scolymus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Schisandra chinensis, Silybum marinum, and Taraxacum officinalis) decreased dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, and estrone sulfate in healthy premenopausal women (677).
  • HypoglycemicsHypoglycemics: Curcumin was found to decrease blood sugar in a diabetic patient (258). In animal research, curcumin inhibited glucose and HbA1c levels, elevated plasma insulin, and improved dyslipidemia and antioxidant status (259; 260; 261; 262; 263; 264; 265; 504). In an animal study, turmeric extracts exhibited hypoglycemic effects on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic mice (267). In animal research, a combination of vitamin C and curcumin was more effective than curcumin alone in preserving endothelial cell function in diabetic rats via antioxidant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic actions (262). In an obese animal model, curcumin reduced glucose and insulin levels (266). Administration of tetrahydrocurcumin and curcumin to diabetic rats resulted in decreased levels of blood glucose (506).
  • HypotensivesHypotensives: According to animal evidence, curcumin may cause transient hypotension (268; 110). Administering turmeric oil to healthy volunteers daily for three months, however, did not show any effect on pulse and blood pressure (77). In laboratory research, five extracts of various turmeric species, including Curcuma longa, had vasorelaxant effects on precontracted vascular smooth muscle (269). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • ImmunosuppressantsImmunosuppressants: Curcumin has been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects in animals (290; 291; 292; 293; 294; 295) and immunosuppressant effects in vitro (296; 297; 298; 299; 300).
  • IronIron: In vitro research has suggested that curcumin may be an effective iron chelator (285; 286). Turmeric has been found to inhibit and reduce iron availability in a dose-dependent manner (287). In animal research, curcumin induced a dose-dependent decline in hematocrit, hemoglobin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation; the appearance of microcytic anisocytotic red blood cells; and decreases in spleen and liver iron content (288). However, in human research, turmeric did not inhibit iron absorption (289).
  • IsoflavonesIsoflavones: According to in vitro research, a combination of curcumin and soy isoflavones may exhibit synergistic anticancer effects (778). A combination of soy isoflavones and curcumin decreased androgen receptor expression in a prostate cancer cell line and reduced prostate-specific antigen levels in the cell line, as well as in men with prostate cancer (779).
  • IsothiocyanatesIsothiocyanates: In laboratory research, curcumin and isothiocyanate had more effective anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects compared to either agent alone (780; 781).
  • LigninLignin: According to in vitro research, lignin may inhibit the cytotoxic effects of curcumin (782).
  • Monascus pilosusMonascus pilosus: In laboratory research, the addition of turmeric to the fermentation medium increased the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Monascus pilosus fermented products (783).
  • Muscle relaxantsMuscle relaxants: In animal research, curcumin increased time to fatigue in mice running downhill, which was associated with decreased inflammatory cytokines and creatine kinase levels (680). In animal research, curcumin or turmeric induced smooth muscle relaxant effects (681; 682).
  • Neurologic agentsNeurologic agents: In animal research, dietary supplementation with turmeric protected against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-mediated neurotoxicity (144). Curcumin and other curcuminoids may play a role in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and memory loss, as suggested by preliminary research (683; 684; 685; 686; 687; 688; 689; 690; 691; 692; 693; 694). Other neuroprotective effects of curcumin have been shown in animal and in vitro research (695; 696; 697; 698; 699; 700; 701; 702; 703; 704; 705; 706; 707; 708; 709; 710; 711; 712; 713; 714; 715).
  • Omega-3 fatty acidsOmega-3 fatty acids: In animal research, concurrent use of curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids produced synergistic inhibitory activity in pancreatic tumors (784). Omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin had additive effects on the inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in reduced cognitive deficits in animal research (785) and synergistic anti-inflammatory effects in vitro (786).
  • Osteoporosis agentsOsteoporosis agents: In animal research, curcumin increased bone marrow cellularity and alpha-esterase-positive cells (664). In animal research, curcumin suppressed increased bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes (665). In APP/PS1 transgenic mice, curcumin improved bone microarchitecture and enhanced mineral density (666). A curcumin-rich turmeric compound, but not a curcumin-poor one, protected bone density in an animal model (667). Curcumin was not shown to increase bone mass in all animal studies (668).
  • P-glycoprotein modulatorsP-glycoprotein modulators: Curcuminoids from Curcuma longa L. were found to have both inhibitory and stimulatory effects on p-glycoprotein (301; 302; 303; 304; 305; 306; 307; 308; 309; 310; 311; 312; 313). Theoretically, curcumin may alter levels of p-glycoprotein substrates (301). Curcumin's effects on p-glycoprotein function and expression in vivo have been reviewed (726).
  • PiperinePiperine: In human research, the bioavailability of curcumin was increased twentyfold when consumed with piperine (the active ingredient in pepper) (787). Increases were also observed in animals (493) and in vitro using everted rat intestinal sacs (788). A combination of piperine and curcumin inhibited breast stem cell self-renewal (789) and 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis (790). Synergistic or potentiating effects have been shown in other studies as well (791; 353; 792).
  • PiplartinePiplartine: According to in vitro research, curcumin may augment the cytotoxic effects of piplartine isolated from Piper chaba (793).
  • ProtandimProtandim: According to in vitro research, Protandim, a combination of five antioxidant ingredients (ashwagandha, bacopa extract, green tea extract, silymarin, and curcumin) may have superior antioxidant effect compared to those of its individual components (794).
  • QuercetinQuercetin: In human research, a combination of quercetin and curcumin improved the clinical efficacy of prulifloxacin (146).
  • ResveratrolResveratrol: In animal research, a combination of resveratrol and curcumin exhibited antioxidant effects (795). Further animal and laboratory research has indicated synergistic antioxidant and anticancer effects (796; 797; 798; 795). According to animal research, concurrent use of resveratrol and curcumin along with chronic insulin treatment may induce a greater inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and nitric oxide (NO) compared to their use alone (134). In laboratory research, a combination of curcumin and resveratrol had synergistic effects on chondroprotection and protection against IL-1beta-induced, NF-kappaB-mediated inflammation and apoptosis (799).
  • RetinolRetinol: According to in vitro research, curcumin may have synergistic antiproliferative effects in combination with retinoic acid (731).
  • SaffronSaffron: In animal research, a combination of saffron, curcumin, and garlic had more pronounced anticancer effects than did each agent alone (772).
  • Selenium: In laboratory research, selenium-induced apoptosis of liver tumor cells was inhibited by curcumin; the inhibition was induced by the curcumin-mediated reduction of reactive oxygen species, which are necessary for selenium signaling (800).
  • VasodilatorsVasodilators: In laboratory research, five extracts of various turmeric species, including Curcuma longa, exhibited vasorelaxant effects on precontracted vascular smooth muscle (269). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • Vitamin CVitamin C: In animal research, a combination of vitamin C and curcumin was more effective than curcumin alone in preserving endothelial cell function in diabetic rats via antioxidant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic actions (262). In human research (in patients with oral leukoplakia), curcumin resulted in increased serum and salivary vitamin C (753).
  • Vitamin DVitamin D: According to in vitro research, curcumin may potentiate differentiation in leukemia cells induced by 1-alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (801). In laboratory research, curcumin had synergistic antiproliferatory effects with vitamin D3 (731; 802; 803).
  • Vitamin EVitamin E: According to animal research, curcumin may increase the bioavailability of vitamin E (804). In human research (in patients with oral leukoplakia), curcumin resulted in increased serum and salivary vitamin E (753). In human research, curcumin increased blood levels of vitamin E (460).

    • Turmeric/Food Interactions:

  • Beta-caroteneBeta-carotene: Curcumin has been shown to increase the bioaccessibility of beta-carotene from foods (805).
  • CaseinCasein: According to in vitro research, curcumin may be able to bind to casein, which may increase its stability (806).
  • CoffeeCoffee: In animal research, coffee was observed to have synergistic antigenotoxic effects with curcumin and other plant constituents (807).
  • GarlicGarlic: In animal research, the combination of saffron, curcumin, and garlic had more pronounced anticancer effects than did each agent alone (772). Use of a turmeric-garlic sauce for marinating steaks resulted in lower levels of the heterocyclic aromatic amines 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo-[4,5-b]pyridine and 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (808).
  • GingerGinger: According to animal research, curcumin and ginger extract may improve abrasion wound healing in corticosteroid-impaired hairless rat skin (177).
  • Green teaGreen tea: In animal research, the combination of green tea and curcumin exhibited inhibitory effects against oral carcinogenesis at the postinitiation stage (774; 775; 776). Efficacy against B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia has also been noted (777).
  • FatFat: In animals consuming high-fat diets, curcumin reduced fecal deoxycholic acid (809).
  • Fish oilFish oil: In animal research, fish oil enhanced the curcumin-induced suppression of CD4(+) T-cell proliferation (771).
  • LegumesLegumes: In animal research, a mixture of 11 spices, including turmeric, resulted in an increased biological value of tested legumes (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus and Dolichos biflorus) (810).
  • Omega-3 fatty acidsOmega-3 fatty acids: In animal research, concurrent use of curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids produced synergistic inhibitory activity in pancreatic tumors (784). Omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin had additive effects on the inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in reduced cognitive deficits in animal research (785) and synergistic anti-inflammatory effects in vitro (786).
  • Polyunsaturated fatty acidsPolyunsaturated fatty acids: In animal research, curcumin protected against polyunsaturated fatty acid-induced hyperlipidemia (811).
  • Sunflower oilSunflower oil: According to animal research, turmeric may increase alpha-tocopherol levels in sunflower oil (812).

    • Turmeric/Lab Interactions:

  • Alpha1-acid glycoproteinAlpha1-acid glycoprotein: In obese cats, curcumin resulted in reduced levels of alpha1-acid glycoprotein (813).
  • Albumin:creatinine ratioAlbumin:creatinine ratio: In animal research, curcumin had no effect on the albumin-to-creatinine ratio in urine (814).
  • Blood pressureBlood pressure: According to animal evidence, curcumin may cause transient hypotension (268; 110). Administering turmeric oil to healthy volunteers daily for three months, however, did not show any effect on pulse and blood pressure (77). In laboratory research, five extracts of various turmeric species, including Curcuma longa, had vasorelaxant effects on precontracted vascular smooth muscle (269). In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • Body weightBody weight: In in vitro and animal research, curcumin inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and angiogenesis and obesity in C57/BL mice (609). Also, in an obese animal model, curcumin reduced weight and the content of lipocytes; blood sugar, insulin, leptin, and TNF-alpha were also reduced (266). In animal research, curcumin reduced body weight (317).
  • CholesterolCholesterol: In laboratory research, curcumin was found to decrease cholesterol synthesis (815).
  • Coagulation panelCoagulation panel: In vitro and animal research has reported that turmeric may inhibit platelet aggregation (271; 277; 274; 275). According to a review, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding or potentiate the effects of warfarin (278). Secondary sources have also suggested antiplatelet activity (279).
  • Complete blood countComplete blood count: In patients with beta-thalassemia, curcuminoids (500mg daily) for 12 months improved complete blood count (816).
  • CorticosteroneCorticosterone: According to animal research, curcumin may inhibit stress-induced corticosterone increases (315; 817).
  • CortisolCortisol: In animal research, curcumin reduced the effect of transport stress on serum cortisol concentration (818).
  • C-reactive proteinC-reactive protein: In animal research, curcumin was found to reduce levels of C-reactive protein (819).
  • Creatine kinaseCreatine kinase: According to animal research, curcumin may increase levels of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) (820).
  • CytokinesCytokines: According to animal research, curcumin may have stimulatory or inhibitory effects on numerous cytokines, including, but not limited to, interferon (IFN)-gamma, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-13, IL-1beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta (290; 291; 821; 299; 300; 822; 129).
  • Fecal deoxycholic acidFecal deoxycholic acid: According to animal research, curcumin may reduce fecal deoxycholic acid and hyodeoxycholic acid, a metabolite of lithocholic acid (809).
  • HaptoglobinHaptoglobin: According to animal research, curcumin may reduce levels of haptoglobin (819).
  • GlucoseGlucose: Curcumin was found to decrease blood sugar in a diabetic patient (258). In animal research, curcumin inhibited glucose and HbA1c levels, elevated plasma insulin, and improved dyslipidemia and antioxidant status (259; 260; 261; 262; 263; 264; 265). In an animal research, turmeric extracts exhibited hypoglycemic effects on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic mice (267). In animal research, a combination of vitamin C and curcumin was more effective than curcumin alone in preserving endothelial cell function in diabetic rats via antioxidant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic actions (262). In an obese animal model, curcumin reduced glucose and insulin levels (266). Administration of tetrahydrocurcumin and curcumin to diabetic rats resulted in decreased levels of blood glucose (506).
  • HomocysteineHomocysteine: According to animal research, curcumin may decrease homocysteine levels (518).
  • Hormone panelHormone panel: In animal research, curcumin displaced estradiol binding (314), inhibited stress-induced corticosterone increases (315), and reduced serum prolactin (317). In in vitro research in endocrine pituitary tumor cell lines, growth hormone, ACTH, and prolactin production were inhibited by curcumin (318; 823). In human research, a combination botanical supplement (Curcuma longa, Cynara scolymus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Schisandra chinensis, Silybum marinum, and Taraxacum officinalis) decreased dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, and estrone sulfate in healthy premenopausal women (677).
  • Immune panelImmune panel: In an animal parasite model, curcumin was observed to lower serum levels of interleukin (IL)-12 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) (612), as well as augment specific IgG and IgG1 responses against soluble worm antigen and soluble egg antigen; IgM and IgG2a responses were not significantly changed (612). In rats, curcumin was shown to increase IgG levels (824). Curcumin increased white blood cell counts in Balb/c mice (664). In animal research, curcumin decreased IL-12 production by macrophages, leading to inhibition of Th1-mediated cytokine profile in CD4+ T cells (821).
  • InsulinInsulin: In animal research, curcumin was found to reduce insulin levels (266; 825) or increase insulin levels (504). In healthy subjects, turmeric did not affect glucose response in an oral glucose tolerance test, but insulin response was increased (826).
  • IronIron: In vitro research has suggested that curcumin may be an effective iron chelator (285; 286). Turmeric has been found to inhibit and reduce iron availability in a dose-dependent manner (287). In animal research, curcumin induced a dose-dependent decline in hematocrit, hemoglobin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation; the appearance of microcytic anisocytotic red blood cells; and decreases in spleen and liver iron content (288). However, in human research, turmeric did not inhibit iron absorption (289).
  • Lactate dehydrogenaseLactate dehydrogenase: According to animal research, curcumin may increase levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (820).
  • LeptinLeptin: According to findings from animal research, curcumin may reduce leptin levels (266; 319; 825).
  • Liver enzymesLiver enzymes: In an animal parasite model, curcumin was found to restore hepatic enzyme activities to normal levels and enhance catalase activity in the liver (612). Reduced levels of liver enzymes and inflammatory cytokines have been shown in animal research (332; 325; 333). In human research, elevated liver enzymes were reported in individuals taking 6,000mg cucuminoids daily (374).
  • Liver triglyceridesLiver triglycerides: According to animal research, curcumin may reduce liver triglyceride concentrations (827).
  • Prostate-specific antigenProstate-specific antigen: A combination of soy isoflavones and curcumin reduced prostate-specific antigen levels in the cell line, as well as in men with prostate cancer (779).
  • PulsePulse: In rats, a methanolic turmeric extract induced hypotension, bradycardia, and vasodilation (110).
  • RadiotherapyRadiotherapy: In vitro, curcumin was a radiosensitizing agent allowing for enhanced antiangiogenic effects in human intestinal microvascular intestinal cells (828).
  • Serum lipidsSerum lipids: Animal research has suggested that turmeric may decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL), increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and decrease serum lipid peroxides (282; 283); however, in human research, serum lipid levels were not significantly altered in response to turmeric oil (77) or curcumin (517). Curcumin has also been shown to elevate levels of HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein (apo) A-I in high-fat-fed hamsters (319; 518; 519; 520). The hypolipidemic effects of curcumin have been demonstrated in a number of other animal studies as well (521; 522; 319; 518; 523; 524; 519; 520; 525; 526).
  • Thyroid panelThyroid panel: According to animal research, curcumin may exert stimulatory influence on the secretory function of the thyroid gland in young rats but has weak antithyroid activity in old animals (465).