Antithrombotic activity of turmeric (Curcuma longa): A review

Abstract

The venous and arterial thromboembolic disorders are still be the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Now a days, the concept of "healthy diets" is very popular in the present lifestyle. So, the use of antithrombotic agents is of considerable interest in the role of natural food products and their bioactive components in the prevention and treatment of these disorders. Moreover, epidemiologic studies have provided evidence that foods with the thrombolytic/fibrinolytic effect could reduce the risk of thrombosis. "Blood thinner foods" have the antiplatelet, anticoagulant, and/or fibrinolytic properties. Natural foods that contain salicylates can mimic some of the antiplatelet effects of cardiovascular drug like aspirin. Fruits (i.e., grapefruit, guava, kiwi, pineapple, and watermelon), vegetables (i.e., alfalfa, beans, corn, potato, radish, and zucchini), and spices (i.e., chili, curry, ginger, rosemary and turmeric) are reported that they are containing salicylates compounds. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a small rhizomatous perennial herb belonging to Zingiberaceae family originating from Southeastern Asia. It is a folk remedy for applying on fresh cuts to stop bleeding and for the healing of wound. Further, turmeric has been shown to possess anticancer, antidiabetic, antifertility, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Its phytochemical substances are alkaloids, curcuminoids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, which all of these contribute to its remedial properties. This article provides a brief overview of the antithrombotic activity of turmeric, C. longa to further provide an up-to-date review showing its importance.