Pharmacological activities of wild turmeric (Curcuma aromatica Salisb): a review

Abstract

Wild Turmeric (Curcuma aromatica Salisb.) is extensively used as an aromatic medicinal cosmetic in India. The plant has been in traditional use and in Ayurvedic literature it is mentioned as a remedy for various diseases related to skin, cardiovascular and respiratory system. For the last few decades, research works have been done to establish the pharmacological potential of wild Turmeric and its extracts. Some of them include anti-inflammatory, wound healing, anti-melanogenic, antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity, anti-tumor, anti-cancer, anti-repellent, antitussive, anti-platelet activity and anti-nephrotoxic activity. This review gives an update mainly on the pharmacological activities of Curcuma aromatic Salisb. and its extracts with plausible medicinal applications.