Turmeric.

Abstract

This chapter covers the morphology, uses, chemical composition (volatile compounds, curcuminoids, polysaccharides and oleoresin) and medicinal properties (including antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic, antineoplastic, antimicrobial and hypoglycaemic activities) of turmeric (Curcuma longa).

Curcuminoid’s Content and Fingerprint Analysis for Authentication and Discrimination of Curcuma xanthorrhiza from Curcuma longa by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detector

“…CL is locally known as kunyit and is extensively used in many jamu prescriptions, food supplement, and also herbal drink in addition to its use for dyes, flavor, and spices (Chempakam and Parthasarathy 2008). This plant could be a potential counterfeit or adulterant for CX because of it having a similar color for their rhizomes and also exhibiting some similar biological activities to CX, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective activities (Arora et al 1971;Kiso et al 1983;Toda et al 1985;Singh et al 2002).…”

The Chemistry of Turmeric

“…Additionally, p-cymene, β-sesquiphellandrene, and sesquiterpene alcohols have also been reported (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008). Additionally, p-cymene, β-sesquiphellandrene, and sesquiterpene alcohols have also been reported (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008).…”

“…It is generally extracted by steam distillation, and processing and extraction techniques play a vital role in maximizing oil yield, pigments, and their constituents (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008). It is generally extracted by steam distillation, and processing and extraction techniques play a vital role in maximizing oil yield, pigments, and their constituents (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008).…”

“…Turmeric owes its aromatic taste to the volatile oils present in the rhizome (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008). C. aromatica is comparatively much higher in volatile oil (4-8%) and low in curcuminoids (1.5%).…”

Spices and Aromatics

“…Thus, turmeric is gaining importance all over the world as a cure to combat a variety of human ailments because of its antiinflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, choleratic, antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antifibrotic, antivenomous, antiviral, antidiabetic, antihepatotoxic, antioxidant, and anticancerous properties as well as insect repellent activity (Chempakam and Parthasarathy, 2008). The rhizomes contain curcuminoids (2.5-6%) and are responsible for the yellow color.…”