Efficacy of curcumin in oral submucous fibrosis patients: a cross-sectional study

Previously designated as a premalignant condition oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic insidious disease affecting the oral cavity now comes under the heading of potentially malignant disorders (WHO 2005). Oral submucous fibrosis has shown its higher prevalence in south Asian population due to the heavy consumption of areca nut in this area dominating over the rest of the world. Curcumin is an active component of turmeric which is widely used as a spice for cooking. Curcumin being highly potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti- cancer agent holds great potential in the world of research medicine. Methods: 45 healthy adult subjects were randomly divided into 3 groups of 15 each based on the treatment they received. Group I was administered commercially available curcumin tablets Group II was administered topical application of turmeric, Group III was revealed significant decrease in burning sensation after 6 months of therapy in groups receiving systemic and topical application of curcumin. Also, significant improvement in mouth opening with patients receiving therapy with systemic curcmin. Conclusion: The present study substantiated that systemic therapy of curcumin is best in improving clinical signs and symptoms of the disease.

Reference: Anil et al. Curcumin as a cure; comparison of the efficacy of systemic and topical administration of curcumin in oral submucous fibrosis patients: a cross-sectional study. World journal of pharmaceutical research. Volume 6, issue 5, 1175-1186.

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