Nano-Extracts of Green-Synthesized Curcuma longa: An Innovative Approach to Breast and Colorectal Cancer Prevention

Aim: Curcumin, the primary bioactive agent in Curcuma longa (turmeric), is celebrated in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing effects. Its clinical application is limited by poor bioavailability, despite its traditional use in treating respiratory, liver, and skin disorders. Curcumin nanoparticles produced through green synthesis improve solubility, stability, and targeted delivery, demonstrating significant promise for the treatment of breast and colon cancer. Materials and Methods: Curcumin nanoparticles were produced from extracts of Curcuma longa using eco-friendly green chemistry methods. UV-visible spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the nanoparticles in terms of their size distribution, stability, and structural integrity. Their ability to kill cells was assessed using MCF-7 (breast cancer) and HT-29 (colon cancer) cell lines. To evaluate the reduction of tumor volume and the general therapeutic safety, in vivo preclinical studies were carried out. Results: The nano-extracts demonstrated considerable cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HT-29 cells, with IC₅₀ values between 95.2 and 88.6 μg/mL, signifying a substantial reduction in cancer cell proliferation. Compared to standard curcumin, the nanoparticles exhibited therapeutic effectiveness by reducing tumor volume by up to 40%, while also demonstrating high bioavailability and low toxicity. Conclusion: Green chemistry-produced curcumin nanoparticles exhibit strong anticancer properties, stability, and bioavailability, making them cost-effective, environmentally friendly and accessible, making them a sustainable cancer treatment alternative.