Increased bioavailability of curcumin using a novel dispersion technology system (LipiSperse®).

Curcumin has been shown to deliver protective effects against numerous degenerative conditions associated with high levels of inflammation and oxidative stress. Owing to its poor bioavailability when delivered orally, it is difficult to deliver a high concentration therapeutic dose. LipiSperse® is a novel delivery system that uses dispersion technology to enhance bioavailability of hydrophobic agents. In this study, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of a commercially available curcumin extract, with or without the curcumin-LipiSperse® delivery complex. Eighteen healthy male and female volunteers participated in this single equivalent dose, randomised, double-blinded study. Seven of those volunteers further participated in the crossover phase of the trial. Plasma concentrations were determined at baseline and at regular intervals over a 24-h period following 750 mg of curcuminoid ingestion. In both the parallel and crossover trial, Curcumin with LipiSperse® delivered significantly higher plasma curcuminoid concentrations compared to the raw curcumin product (807 vs 318 ng/mL in the crossover trial). The novel delivery system LipiSperse® is safe in humans, and demonstrates superior bioavailability for the supply of curcumin when compared to a standard curcumin extract.