The Effect of Curcumin (Turmeric) on Oral and Periodontal Diseases

Introduction Herbal medicines have been used for thousands of years in developing countries and more than 80 % of population relies on their use for health care needs. Turmeric, neem, aloe Vera, clove, cinnamon are among the common herbal products used in dentistry, turmeric has been used traditionally as a remedy for skin, stomach, liver etc. Since turmeric has antimicrobial, Antioxidant and other useful properties, it is useful in dentistry also [1] The most active part of turmeric named curcumin, its responsible for turmeric vibrant yellow color, first identified in 1910 by Lampe and Milobedzka [2]. Periodontal disease is One of the most common diseases affecting human race Prevalence rates range from 25 to 54 percent in gingivitis (early disease with no attachment loss) to 43 percent with chronic periodontitis determined by one or more sites of attachment loss [3] according to American Academy of Periodontology) 2000) defined Chronic Periodontitis as, inflammation of the gingiva extending into the adjacent attachment apparatus. The disease is characterized by loss of clinical attachment due to destruction of the periodontal ligament and loss of the adjacent supporting bone [4] Periodontitis is a bacterial initiated but host modulated chronic infection that leads to destruction of the connective tissue supporting the teeth [5] Non surgical therapy has been the main stay of periodontal disease management with mechanical removal of plaque being the predominant method, However the use of antimicrobial adjunctive treatment is widely investigated with minimum resistance and adverse effect. This has led to renewed interest in the discovery of novel anti-infective natural compounds derived from turmeric [6] Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and has action in suppressing the activity of Toll like receptor (TLRS) has initiated great interest in identifying and expanding its therapeutic potential in limiting the destruction in periodontitis [7]