Antioxidant effects of curcumin on the blood tissue in rats

Abstract

Curcumin is a pigment found in Indian saffron spices, also known as turmeric. The aim of this study is to investigate the antioxidant effect of curcumin, a phytochemical, on the blood tissue of rats. In the study, 24 Wistar rats were 8 weeks old, randomly divided into 2 groups which were the control group and the experimental group was fed with curcumin supplement. Curcumin supplemented group was fed at 300mg/kg/day curcumin dissolved in corn oil by oral gavage for 12 days. 24 hours after the last feeding, TAC (Total Antioxidant Capacity) and TOC (Total Oxidant Capacity)  were analyzed in blood samples. In curcumin supplemented group TAC decreased significantly than control group (p<0,05). When the TOC is examined, in curcumin supplemented group TOC was evaluated statistically higher than in the control group (p<0,05). Results of the study show that curcumin strengthens the antioxidant defense system.