Research: KURUP and COLLEAGUES,

Listed in Issue 168

Abstract

KURUP and COLLEAGUES,  Allergy and Immunology Division, Department of Pediatric, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA reviewed (57 References) the role of curcumin in the amelioration of allergies.

Background

Recent years have witnessed a global increase in allergy and asthma, particularly in developed countries.

Methodology

Attempts to develop effective control measures for allergy and asthma resulted in the exploration of alternate medicines including herbal remedies traditionally used in old world countries. Turmeric is known for its multiple health restoring properties, and has been used in treating several diseases including several respiratory disorders. Turmeric is a common spice used in the culinary preparations in South and East Asian countries.

Results

The active component of turmeric is curcumin, a polyphenolic phytochemical, with anti-inflammatory, antiamyloid, antiseptic, antitumour, and antioxidative properties. Curcumin was reported to have antiallergic properties with inhibitory effect on histamine release from mast cells. The effectiveness of curcumin in allergy and asthma has been further investigated using a murine model of allergy. The results indicate a marked inhibition of allergic response in animals treated with curcumin suggesting a major role for curcumin in reducing the allergic response.

Conclusion

The present review focuses on the results of research aimed to understand the immunomodulation induced by curcumin and its associated roles in the amelioration of allergy. These findings needed further evaluation, extrapolation, and confirmation before using curcumin for controlling allergy and asthma in humans. [References: 57]

References

Korup VP and Barrios CS. Immunomodulatory effects of curcumin in allergy. [Review] [57 refs]. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 52 (9):1031-9. Sep 2008.

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