What Is Curcumin?

Curcumin is the pigment that is present in Curcuma longa L (Turmeric) called diferuloylmethane; it is an asymmetric molecule with a seven carbon linker connecting two o-methoxy phenolic groups containing aromatic rings. It is synthesised by Pabon′s reaction using vanillin and acetylacetone in the presence of boric oxide.

Its deep-orange pigment is in use for various dying applications from food to textiles. Curcumin is a well-known natural dye used for food and fabric colourations because it is antimicrobial properties on dyed textiles . A natural dyeing method could produce wool fabrics with colouring as well as antimicrobial properties.

Nutritional Value Of Turmeric

Turmeric includes more than 300 naturally occurring organic components including beta-carotene, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), iron, fibre, calcium, flavonoids, niacin, zinc, potassium and other nutrients yet Curcumin is the compound profoundly recognised for its health benefits.

Research implies that Curcumin can support in the management of oxidative and inflammatory ailments, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, hyperlipidemia & anxiety. It could also help in the treatment of exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness, thus intensifying recovery and subsequent performance of inactive people.

Fatty Acids Found In Turmeric Rhizomes

• Oleic acid (56.24 - 58.88%),
• Myristic acid (16.25 - 17.71%),
• Palmitic (5.59 - 6.00%),
• Linoleic (10.90 - 12.82%),
• Linolenic (4.15 - 5.46%),
• Ecosenoic acid (2.72 - 3.25%)

The Curcumin extracted from Turmeric is available in several forms including capsules, ointments, tablets, cosmetics & as soaps.