Synthesis, characterization and pharmaceutical properties of curcumin, metal complexes and nanocurcumin

Curcumin, i.e., [1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione], its metal complexes and nanocurcumin were synthesized and analyzed for pharmaceutical properties. The antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties of curcumin, its compounds, and nanocurcumin are the primary findings of this investigation. The structural characteristics of the compounds and these complexation structures were analyzed by Infra-red and UV -Vis spectral studies. Studies suggested the binding with Cu+2, Ni+2, Zn+2 & Mn+2 metals and the coordination of curcumin with metals in bidentate mode. Results indicated that these chelates exhibited potency compared to the respective ligand. Antimicrobial activities showed inhibition against bacteria and fungi. Metal complexes and nanocurcumin exhibited potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities compared to curcumin.