Variability in turmeric as sources of secondary metabolites

Abstract

The biodiversity is boon to ensure natural sustainability of different plant species. The Curcuma is one of the important genera having medicinal importance. In the world nearly 100 different species of turmeric are observed out of which 40 are found in India. The species like C. aeruginosa, C. amada, C. anguistifolia, C. aromatic (Wild turmeric), C. caesia (black turmeric), C. longa, C. vamana and C. zedoaria are economically important. The different Curcuma species having important compounds which plays important roleas 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. Hence, there is wide scope for exploitation of secondary metabolites by preserving biodiversity of Curcuma sp in India.