Curcumin Bioavailability
On the bioavailability of curcumin
Curcumin has been the focus of doctors for a long time, but the problem of its bioavailability is often difficult for Fang family. Although curcumin has many beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor and other effects, after oral administration, it is not well absorbed in the body, metabolized rapidly, excreted quickly, resulting in low bioavailability.
The main reason for this is its physical and chemical properties. Curcumin is a fat-soluble substance with extremely low solubility in water and insoluble in gastrointestinal fluid, so intestinal absorption is limited. Second, the influence of gastrointestinal environment, gastric acid, digestive enzymes, etc. may cause curcumin degradation and reduce its activity. Furthermore, the first-pass effect of the liver is significant. After curcumin enters the liver, it is metabolized and transformed, and the active ingredients are greatly reduced.
To solve the dilemma of curcumin bioavailability, there are various ways. First, preparation improvement. Nanotechnology can produce curcumin nanoparticles, increase its solubility and dispersion, and promote intestinal absorption. Liposomes, microemulsions and other dosage forms are also good. With its special structure, curcumin is protected from gastrointestinal environmental damage and absorption efficiency is improved. Second, combined medication. Added with piperine, etc., it can inhibit the activity of curcumin metabolic enzymes, slow down its metabolic rate, and increase bioavailability. Third, the route of administration is changed. In addition to oral administration, transdermal administration, injection administration, etc. may avoid the first-pass effect of gastrointestinal tract and liver, making curcumin easier to reach target tissues.
The improvement of curcumin bioavailability is of great significance for its clinical application expansion. Doctors should study various strategies, comprehensively consider the patient's situation, and choose the best method to maximize the effectiveness of curcumin and benefit the patients.
