Therapeutic effects of curcumin on kidney disease; an updated review of the current knowledge

Abstract

Curcumin is the essential ingredient of turmeric and one of the most potent antioxidants. It also has several biological capabilities, including anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, anticoagulant, antidiabetic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. Therefore, curcumin has a significant potential for the treatment and control of various diseases. In kidney disorders like chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic nephropathy (DN), the mechanism of kidney damage is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities, can alleviate kidney damage and treat kidney diseases. In patients with kidney disorders, progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is critical because it increases their mortality rate. It has also been proved that curcumin could diminish such progression due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, improving the survival rate. Besides, it has numerous nephroprotective effects that are summarized in this review.