Bioactivity evaluation of the turmeric (Curcuma longa L., Zingiberaceae) extracts in Artemia salina and Biomphalaria glabrata

Abstract

The turmeric is the clean rhizome at good conditions, dried and powdered of Curcuma longa L., an herbaceous plant of Zingiberaceae family. Aiming new alternatives for Schistosomiasis control, the Curcuma longa L. extracts were tested for molluscicidal activity evaluation against adult snails of Biomphalaria glabrata specie, and the toxicity (Brine Shrimp Lethality-BSL-bioassay). The oleoresin and the essential oil of turmeric were active against Artemia salina (CL50 = 80.43 and CL50 = 319.82 μg.mL-1, respectively) and also active against the adult snails of Biomphalaria glabrata (CL50 = 58.3 and CL50 = 46.73 μg.mL-1, respectively). From the obtained results it was concluded that both extracts can constitute an alternative to population control of these snails and in the reduction of Schistosomiasis.