Curcumin
[CAS# 458-37-7]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Biochemical reagent >> Acid-base indicator
• Name: Curcumin
• Synonyms: 1,7-Bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione; C.I. 75300; C.I. Natural Yellow 3; Diferuloylmethane
• Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₂₀O₆
• Molecular Weight: 368.38
• CAS Registry Number: 458-37-7 (91884-86-5)
• EC Number: 207-280-5
• SMILES: COC1=C(C=CC(=C1)/C=C/C(=O)CC(=O)/C=C/C2=CC(=C(C=C2)O)OC)O

Properties

• Water solubility: Slightly soluble (hot) (Expl.)
• Density: 1.3±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 0.93 g/mL (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.643, Calc.^*, 1.4155-1.4175 (Expl.)
• Melting point: 183 °C (Expl.)
• Boiling Point: 591.4±50.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*
• Flash Point: 208.9±23.6 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

Discovery and Applications

Curcumin is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound found in the rhizomes of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), a member of the ginger family. It is the principal active ingredient in turmeric, which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in South Asia, for its wide array of therapeutic properties. Structurally, curcumin is a bisphenolic compound with a distinctive yellow color, making it not only valuable for its medicinal properties but also as a natural colorant in food and cosmetics.

The discovery of curcumin dates back to the early 19th century when it was first isolated from turmeric by the French chemist, A. J. W. Courtine. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that the compound’s chemical structure was fully elucidated, paving the way for further research into its pharmacological properties. Since then, curcumin has attracted significant attention from the scientific community due to its potent biological activities and wide range of potential applications.

Curcumin is best known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. As a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, curcumin inhibits various inflammatory pathways, including the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This makes it particularly effective in managing chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma. The compound’s antioxidant activity, which involves scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, further supports its therapeutic effects by protecting cells from damage associated with aging, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

One of the most widely studied applications of curcumin is in cancer prevention and therapy. Numerous laboratory and animal studies have shown that curcumin can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and prevent the spread of tumors. It does so by modulating several molecular pathways involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). These properties have made curcumin a promising candidate for complementary cancer therapy, particularly in conjunction with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the effectiveness of curcumin as an adjunctive therapy for various cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, curcumin has demonstrated neuroprotective properties. It has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert beneficial effects in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Curcumin’s ability to reduce amyloid-beta plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's pathology, as well as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, make it a potential candidate for preventing or treating cognitive decline and dementia. Several studies have suggested that curcumin may also improve mood and protect against depression by modulating the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Curcumin has also been investigated for its cardiovascular benefits. It has been shown to improve endothelial function, reduce the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and reduce blood pressure, all of which contribute to its potential as a preventive treatment for heart disease. Additionally, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaques in arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Beyond its medical applications, curcumin is widely used in the food and cosmetics industries. In food products, it is valued not only for its color but also for its health benefits, with turmeric being added to curries, teas, and supplements. As a natural colorant, curcumin is used in a range of food and cosmetic products, including sauces, soups, and skincare formulations. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also make it an attractive ingredient in anti-aging and skin care products.

Despite the promising therapeutic potential of curcumin, its bioavailability remains a significant challenge. Curcumin is poorly absorbed when taken orally, which limits its effectiveness in clinical applications. To overcome this limitation, researchers are exploring various strategies, such as the use of curcumin formulations with enhanced bioavailability (e.g., curcumin with piperine, the active compound in black pepper) and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. These advancements aim to increase the compound’s absorption and therapeutic efficacy.

Overall, curcumin remains one of the most widely studied natural compounds due to its broad range of biological activities. With ongoing research and clinical trials, its potential as a preventive and therapeutic agent in various diseases continues to be explored, solidifying its place as a valuable compound in both traditional and modern medicine.

References

2025. 5-Fluorouracil/curcumin loaded silk fibroin hydrogel for the adjuvant therapy in colorectal cancer. Biomaterials Advances, 158.
DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.214108

2025. Extraction of curcuminoids from Curcuma longa L. by fatty acid-based ionic liquid aqueous solution: Experimental and mechanism study. Food Chemistry, 463.
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141605

2025. Novel functional carriers based on Spirulina protein for the delivery of curcumin with improved stability and antioxidant efficiency. Food Chemistry, 463.
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141729