Abstract

Dr. Mayuri Mahanta*, Prof. Makhan Lal and Dr. Ramanand

ABSTRACT

The rhizomes of Curcuma species, including Haridra (Curcuma longa L.), Aama-Haridra (Curcuma amada R.), and Krushna Haridra (Curcuma caesia R.), are widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as cancer, microbial infections, inflammation, skin diseases, asthma, bronchitis, leprosy, infertility, and epilepsy. These species exhibit a range of pharmacological activities, including anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, CNS depressant, and smooth muscle relaxant effects. This study aimed to perform a preliminary phytochemical screening of the ethanolic extracts from the rhizomes of these three species to explore their bioactive compound profiles and pharmacological potential. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to detect key bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, steroids, resins, proteins, amino acids, and triterpenoids. Additionally, morphological analysis of the powdered rhizomes and physicochemical evaluations, including total ash value, acid-insoluble ash, alcohol-soluble extractive value, and water-soluble extractive value, were performed. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the comparative phytochemical profiles of Haridra, Aama-Haridra, and Krushna Haridra, highlighting their pharmacological potential. These results support the need for further clinical research to establish the therapeutic efficacy and safety of these species, promoting the usage and conservation of these important medicinal plants.