Researchers from the University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE) have uncovered a potential connection between curcumin, the primary compound in turmeric, and the enhancement of beneficial gut bacteria in mice.
Published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutics, the study demonstrated that a curcumin-based nanoemulsion led to a 25% increase in Lactobacillus bacteria abundance in treated mice compared to controls.
Lactobacillus, commonly found in probiotic-rich foods, supports gut health.
Lead researcher Lizziane Kretli Winkelsträter Eller highlighted the significance, noting the nanoemulsion’s ability to modify gut microbiota and improve curcumin’s bioavailability.
The team’s nanoemulsion aims to address curcumin’s low bioavailability, particularly in inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Although the nanoemulsion didn’t significantly alleviate inflammation, mice treated with it showed higher Lactobacillus levels.
The study underscores the potential of curcumin in promo
ting gut health and suggests innovative formulations could enhance its effectiveness in treating inflammatory bowel diseases.
This research offers hope for improved treatments, potentially reducing costs and side effects associated with current therapies.
Source: Oman News Agency