Curcumin & Vitamin K

Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound found in the spice turmeric, which is derived from Curcuma longa, a member of the ginger family. Curcumin, the most active component of turmeric, is responsible for many of the health benefits associated with the spice. Vitamin K is also a constituent of turmeric, found in trace amounts. Turmeric is best-known as the spice responsible for the color and flavor of curry dishes.

Antioxidant Activity

The bioavailability, or ease of absorption, of curcumin in humans is somewhat low. Because of this factor, it is unknown as to whether curcumin acts as an antioxidant in the human body. However, the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University reports that test tube studies have shown that curcumin does work to scavenge free radicals. The Institute also suggests that curcumin may promote antioxidant activity indirectly by improving the synthesis of glutathione, another antioxidant. Vitamin K may also be helpful as an antioxidant, particularly for nerve cells.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Curcumin inhibits several enzymes involved in the inflammatory response. When phospholipids, components of cell membranes, are metabolized by phospholipase, arachidonic acid is released. This is then metabolized by cyclooxygenase or lypoxygenase to form prostaglandins, thromboxanes or leukotrienes, all of which are eicosanoids involved in inflammation. Curcumin inhibits lypoxygenase, cyclooxygenase and phospholipase activity. Curcumin also inhibits pro-inflammatory genes, such as nitric oxide synthase. Vitamin K also helps reduce inflammation-promoting factors, but the mechanism is as yet unknown.

Disease Prevention

Curcumin promotes apoptosis, or cell death, in cancer cells in rats. More research is necessary to determine if the same results would occur in human subjects. There is also the possibility that curcumin may be beneficial in the treatment of cystic fibrosis and Alzheimer's disease, but more research in these areas is necessary. Dietary curcumin would not provide a large enough dose to have an effect on these conditions, so any treatments using curcumin would require a concentrated dose.

Interactions

Vitamin K is known for its role in blood clotting. When prescribing blood thinners, such as Coumadin or warfarin, physicians warn against changing the amount of vitamin K consumed each day, as it will affect the amount of blood thinner necessary for optimal therapeutic effects. Though vitamin K is present in turmeric, the consumption of large amounts of turmeric may actually reduce blood clotting. Turmeric contains substances call salicylates, which promote blood thinning by blocking the function of vitamin K. This, in combination with a blood thinning medication, may increase bruising and bleeding.