Researchers at the University of Western So Paulo (UNOESTE) and So Paulo State University have discovered a potential link between curcumin, the main ingredient in turmeric, and the enhancement of beneficial bacteria in the guts of mice.
The study, published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutics, revealed that a solution containing curcumin, in the form of a nanoemulsion, was associated with a 25% increase in the abundance of Lactobacillus bacteria in the treated mice compared to the control group. Lactobacillus bacteria are commonly found in probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and are known for their positive impact on gut health.
Lead researcher, Lizziane Kretli Winkelstrter Eller, a professor at UNOESTE, explained the significance of their findings, stating, "The nanoemulsion changed the gut microbiota of mice by enhancing the presence of beneficial bacteria, effectively improving the bioavailability of curcumin."
The research team's development of a nanoemulsion aimed to address the low bioavailability of curcumin, particularly in patients with inflammatory conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. By administering the curcumin nanoemulsion orally for 14 days to mice with induced intestinal inflammation, the researchers observed promising results in terms of improved gut microbiota and enhanced bioavailability of curcumin.
While the nanoemulsion did not lead to a significant improvement in intestinal inflammation, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus bacteria was notably higher in the mice treated with curcumin nanoemulsion compared to the control group.
The study authors emphasized the importance of developing innovative formulations to maximize the efficacy of curcumin in preventing and treating inflammatory bowel disease, positioning it as a promising alternative to existing treatments that are both costly and associated with significant side effects.
This study sheds light on the potential of curcumin in fostering gut health and offers hope for the development of improved treatments for inflammatory intestinal disorders.
