A dose dependent anti-genotoxic effect of turmeric.

The anti-genotoxic action of turmeric was evaluated by Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART). As described in other mutagenecity tests, turmeric showed non mutagenic effects in the SMART. The well known powerful mutagen urethane was used as a model to evaluate the anti-genotoxicity of turmeric. Combined treatment of urethane and turmeric displayed, throughout all concentrations assayed, an inhibition of the genotoxic effect of urethane by turmeric. This anti-genotoxic effect was proportional to the concentrations applied. The results obtained, both in single and combined treatments indicate the suitability of the wing spot test for miming the normal intake of substances.