Turmeric and curcumin: From traditional medicine to modern therapeutic applications

Turmeric ( Curcuma longa ), a medicinal plant, has maintained its cultural and therapeutic significance over centuries in Ayurveda, Unani, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, novel formulations and delivery methods are being developed to address these challenges. Curcumin exhibits potent antioxidant properties by scavenging free radicals and modulating oxidative pathways to mitigate diseases associated with oxidative stress. Its anti‐inflammatory effects involve the inhibition of key signaling pathways, such as those involving nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐kB) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). Curcumin has exhibited considerable potential in cancer treatment, neuroprotection, cardiovascular health, metabolic and autoimmune disease moderation, and gastrointestinal and skin health. Although generally regarded as safe, high doses or prolonged use may result in toxic side effects, necessitating a careful evaluation. Research gaps concerning curcumin include standardization, formulation development, and large‐scale clinical validation. Future directions may involve the application of nanotechnology, therapeutic strategies, and enhanced bioavailability approaches to improve the treatment outcomes. Overall, turmeric and curcumin are natural bioactive compounds with multifunctional properties and hold potential for integration into modern preventive and therapeutic medicine.