Potential Protective Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Supplementation on Cadmium-Induced Toxicity in Albinos Wistar Rat

Abstract

Polluants like heavy metals are ubiquitous in the environment, and they can enter our bodies and cause many illnesses and metabolic dysfunctions. The objective of our study is to demonstrate the beneficial effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) (Cur) on the toxicity induced by cadmium chloride (Cd) in Albinos wistar rats. Forty male rats were divided into four groups and treated daily for 30 days. The first group (0-0) served as a control and received a normal diet without Cd and Cur. The second group (0-Cur) received 2% of Cur in their food. The third group (Cd-0) was on a normal diet, but they were given Cd orally at a dose of 5 mg/kg. The fourth group (Cd-Cur) was treated with 5 mg/kg Cd and 2% Cur. Biochemical, hematological, and histological markers as well as oxidative stress parameters were estimated. Cd exposure induced a significant disturbance in all the values of the parameters studied compared to the control group. In addition, Cd toxicity caused liver and kidney tissue degeneration. However, feeding a turmeric-rich diet reduced the intensity of cadmium-induced oxidative stress and restored all studied biological analyzes in comparison with the control group. At the same time, tissue degeneration was remarkably corrected. The results suggest that turmeric supplementation in the diet is beneficial as it has the power to reduce cadmium toxicity.