THE USE OF CURCUMIN IN THE TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a pathology of multiple etiology, involving genetic aspects, changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota, environmental and lifestyle factors. When installed, IBD generates hyperactivity of the intestinal mucosa and, consequently, an exacerbated immune response accompanied by local inflammation. In this context, the use of herbal plants as a supporting treatment for IBD has been the subject of recent studies. Among them is turmeric with important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity due to its active ingredient called curcumin.Objective: The aim of this literature review is to discuss the possible benefits of turmeric for IBD.Methods: this is an integrative literature review based on electronic data (PubMed, Scielo and Academic Google) between 2016 and 2021. Articles were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.Results: Thirty articles were selected from studies in humans and animals that investigated the effect of curcumin on inflammation in patients with IBD. These studies show that curcumin decreases the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, decreases intestinal permeability, and acts primarily to alleviate IBD-related symptoms.Conclusion: It is concluded that curcumin has important therapeutic potential in IBD as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment, reducing inflammation and alleviating the symptoms of the disease.