Abstract

THERAPEUTIC IMPORTANCE OF HARIDRA (CURCUMA LONGA LINN.) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MADHUMEHA W.S.R TO DIABETES MELLITUS-TYPE 2 (NIDDM)

Megha G. Pandya*, Neky Mehta, Rita Khagram

ABSTRACT

Diabetes mellitus (DM) can be correlated as Madhumeha in Ayurveda. There is wide number of herbal drugs are mentioned in Ayurvedic texts in the treatment of Madhumeha (DM). Among many herbs known for their anti-diabetic properties, Haridra (Turmeric – Curcuma longa Linn.) stands the leader. Modern studies too have proven the efficacy of turmeric in the treatment of DM especially Type 2 DM. Its rhizomes exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-human immunodeficiency virus, anti-bacterial, antioxidant effects, anti-arthritic, hypoglycemic, and wound healing activities etc. This article provides a comprehensive summary of medicinal properties with review of recent literature on the therapeutic applications of Curcuma longa in the treatment of DM according to Ayurveda and modern science. Another relevant experimental and clinical research works are also reviewed here. Different formulations of Curcuma longa mentioned in different ayurvedic texts are also included in this paper.

Keywords: Curcuma longa Linn., Madhumeha, Haridra, Zingiberaceae