Antioxidant Potential of Curcumin—A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

TLDR

Antioxidant potential refers to neutralizing excess oxygen free radicals, and curcumin is reported to reduce oxidative stress. The study aimed to evaluate curcumin’s effect on oxidative stress markers through a meta‑analysis of randomized clinical trials. The meta‑analysis included 308 participants (40 % men, mean age 27.6 ± 3.8 y) from four randomized trials, with curcumin dosed at 645 mg/day for an average of 67 days. Curcumin significantly raised total antioxidant capacity (SMD = 2.696, p = 0.045) and tended to lower malondialdehyde levels (SMD = –1.579, p = 0.086).

Abstract

Antioxidant potential is defined as the ability to neutralize oxygen free radicals that are generated in excess due to environmental influences. The body's defense mechanisms often require support in preventing the effects of oxidative stress. The literature data suggest that curcumin has antioxidant activity that can significantly reduce oxidative stress levels. The aim was to assess the impact of curcumin on oxidative stress markers.PubMed and Embase were searched from database inception until 27 September 2019 for randomized clinical trials in >20 patients treated with curcumin supplements and randomized to placebo/no intervention/physical activity to verify the antioxidant potential of curcumin.Four studies were included in the meta-analysis, three of which were double-blind and one single-blind. A total of 308 participants took part in the research. A total of 40% of the respondents were men. The average age of participants was 27.60 ± 3.79 years. The average supplementation time was 67 days and the average dose of curcumin administered was 645 mg/24 h. Curcumin significantly increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (SMD = 2.696, Z = 2.003, CI = 95%, p = 0.045) and had a tendency to decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (SMD = -1.579, Z = -1.714, CI = 95%, p = 0.086).Pure curcumin has the potential to reduce MDA concentration and increase total antioxidant capacity.