Novel formulations and uses for Curcuma extracts

摘要

Formulations and uses of extracts of Curcuma longa L. plants for safe use topically, orally, rectally, or vaginally, for example, are provided. A sunscreen containing an extract of Curcuma longa L. is provided, the sunscreen having an absorption that spans the UVA and UVB ranges in a manner that meets updated FDA recommendations without requiring the addition of titanium dioxide. A process of producing the extract is also provided, using an extraction solvent that is at least substantially non-toxic and useful also as a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier in liquid dosage forms. The extraction process also produces a significantly higher yield from a single extraction than the state-of-the-art. Liquid dosage forms can be produced directly from the extraction process without requiring removal of the extraction solvent, reducing complexity and cost of processing over the state-of-the-art. Microemulsions and nanoemulsions are also provided to enhance the bioavailability and stability of the extracts.