Anti-inflammatory activity of BCM-95 (bio-enhanced formulation of turmeric with increased bioavailabilty) compared to Curcumin in Wistar rats

Objective: To evaluate anti-inflammatory activity of bioenhanced turmeric formulation (BCM-95) compared to commercial Curcumin formulation (Curcuminoids 95%) in Carrageenan-induced acute inflammatory model. Materials and Methods: Thirty six Wistar rats were divided into six groups-Normal control (2 ml of vehicle), Standard control (Indomethacin 10 mg/kg), 2 doses of BCM 95 (10 and 20 mg/kg) and Curcuminoids 95% (10 and 20 mg/kg). Paw volume was measured using a digital plethysmometer. Vehicle or test drugs were given to rats 30 min before carrageenan administration. Baseline paw volume reading (V₀) was noted just prior to administration of 0.1 ml of 1% carrageenan to right hind paw of the rat. Test paw volume readings (V_t) were measured at 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300 and 360 min, after carrageenan injection. Oedema expressed as increased paw volume (v_t-v₀) was noted and percentage inhibition of oedema was calculated for all treatment groups. Statistical analysis: Difference between groups were analyzed with ANOVA followed by Tukey test. Results: All treatment groups demonstrated significant (p<0.05) anti-inflammatory activity (oedema suppression) compared to normal control. Anti-inflammatory activity of BCM 95 treated groups were comparable to standard control group except at certain time points, whereas the same activity at all-time points with Curcuminoid 95% treated groups were significantly less than standard control group. Percentage inhibition of paw oedema was maximum with standard control group followed by BCM 95 treated groups followed by Curcuminoid 95% treated groups. Conclusion: BCM 95 treated groups showed significant anti-inflammatory activity compared to Curcuminoid 95% treated groups.