Potential applications of curcumin and curcumin nanoparticles: from traditional therapeutics to modern nanomedicine

Abstract

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is one of the potent, nontoxic, and major bioactive components present in turmeric. The major drawbacks of curcumin are low absorption and poor bioavailability. The present review highlights on the methods for the fabrication of curcumin nanoparticles and their applications in treatment of cancer and wound infections. Curcumin nanoparticles possess remarkable antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoan activity. Hence, curcumin nanoparticle-loaded nano-gel, microemulsion, and nano-cream can be used for drug delivery.

Keywords

• antimicrobial activity
• curcumin
• curcumin nanoparticles