Anti-microbial Activity of Turmeric Natural Dyeagainst Different Bacterial Strains

Curcumin, a yellow pigment present in the Indian spice turmeric (associated with curry powder), has been linked with suppression of inflammation; angiogenesis; tumorigenesis; diabetes; diseases of the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurological systems, of skin, and of liver; loss of bone and muscle; depression; chronic fatigue; and neuropathic pain. The utility of curcumin is limited by its color, lack of water solubility, and relatively low in vivo bioavailability. Because of the multiple therapeutic activities attributed to curcumin, there is an intense search for the ‘‘super curcumin’’. In the present study anti microbial activity of turmeric natural dye against different bacterial strains. In the present study in vitro, test confirmed the antimicrobial activity of turmeric extract against ten different bacterial strains. The antibacterial activity was measured by agar well diffusion method. The natural dye showed antibacterial activity against all the test bacterial isolates. Turmeric natural dye showed good inhibitory activity against E.coli and Vibrio cholera with a zone of inhibition 7mm to 15mm and 10mm to 15mm respectively. As turmeric powders are used to color natural fibers from which consumer products are manufactured. The incorporation of turmeric dye with natural fiber will help to produce value added handicrafts.