Administration of turmeric (curcumin) in chronic renal failure; a narrative review on current knowledge

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a health issue in the past but today it has become a global health threat. These patients experience a wide range of problems, thus it is very useful to make a change in their lives. Hemodialysis reduces the level of antioxidants required for the body and causes oxidative stress. Many studies have noted the positive role of anti-oxidants in chronic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and kidney diseases, however, some studies have reported their slight effect on reduction of mortality and cardiovascular diseases. Turmeric is one of the sources of antioxidants and one of the seasoning used in foods. Given the properties and many applications of turmeric (curcumin) which are mentioned in ancient and new sources as well as in traditional medicine, many empirical and human studies have been conducted so far to investigate its effects. Hence, in this study we reviewed previous studies in order to investigate the effects of the turmeric (curcumin) on patients with CKD. Given the properties of turmeric, its consumption has been recommended to control digestive and liver diseases, cancer, arthritis, allergy, asthma, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and high blood sugar. Given the results of studies conducted on the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, it can be concluded that turmeric can be used as a proper source for the preparation and production of anti-inflammatory drugs or a supplementary pharmaceutical to be used for hemodialysis patients.