Turmeric Essential Oil Constituents as Potential Drug Candidates: A Comprehensive Overview of Their Individual Bioactivities

Abstract

The therapeutic properties of turmeric essential oil have been extensively documented in both preclinical and clinical studies. Research indicates that its primary active compounds are promising candidates for addressing a wide range of pathologies, exhibiting anticancer, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, cardiovascular, hypoglycemic, dermatological, hepatoprotective, neurological, antiparasitic, antiviral, insecticidal, antifungal, and antivenom activities. While numerous compounds possess similar potential applications, the isolated active constituents of turmeric essential oil stand out due to their unique pharmacological profiles and absence of toxicity. This literature review meticulously compiles and analyzes the bioactivities of these constituents, emphasizing their molecular mechanisms of action, reported pharmacological effects, and potential therapeutic applications. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of currently available clinical and preclinical findings related to individual turmeric essential oil compounds, while also identifying critical knowledge gaps. By summarizing these findings, this work encourages further research into the isolated compounds from turmeric oil as viable drug candidates, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.