Curcumin, the golden-yellow compound that gives turmeric its colour, has long fascinated scientists and health enthusiasts for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Yet, despite its promise, curcumin’s effectiveness in supplements has been limited by its poor stability and bioavailability. Now, a new era has dawned with BCM-95® from Arjuna Natural, which has just received a United States patent for a novel curcuminoid composition —ushering in a breakthrough era for curcumin science.
The science of curcumin: Keto and enol forms explained
At the molecular level, curcumin is a shapeshifter. It exists in two main “tautomeric” forms—called the keto and enol forms. These forms are like two sides of the same coin, created by subtle shifts in the molecule’s hydrogen atoms and double bonds.
Enol form: This is the predominant form found in natural turmeric. In the enol state, curcumin features a hydroxyl group (—OH) adjacent to a double bond. However, while abundant, the enol form is less stable, especially in alkaline or non-polar environments, and is more prone to degradation.
Keto form: The keto form, on the other hand, is characterised by a carbonyl group (C=O) and contains an “active methylene group” (—CH₂—) between two carbonyls. This structure makes the keto form a superior antioxidant, as it can more readily donate hydrogen atoms to neutralise harmful free radicals. The keto form is more stable in acidic or polar environments, which helps preserve curcumin’s beneficial properties.
Why does this matter?
The antioxidant activity of curcumin—its ability to fight oxidative stress and inflammation—largely depends on the presence of the keto form. In the body, especially in the digestive tract where conditions can vary, curcumin often shifts toward the less stable enol form, losing some of its antioxidant power. In basic or non-polar environments, curcumin can even degrade into byproducts that lack these health benefits.
The patent: Optimising curcumin for maximum benefit
The new BCM-95® patent is a game-changer because it addresses this challenge head-on. The patented composition features a carefully optimised ratio of curcumin-keto to curcumin-enol , closely mimicking the most beneficial natural state of curcumin. This means more of the potent, stable keto form is available, enhancing curcumin’s antioxidant and health-promoting effects.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. BCM-95® also incorporates turmeric essential oil, particularly rich in ar-turmerone , which acts as a natural bioenhancer—protecting curcumin from degradation and boosting its absorption in the body.
What this means for formulators, manufacturers, and researchers
Formulators can now create supplements, functional foods, and beverages with enhanced efficacy, stability, and consumer appeal—backed by robust science and patent protection.
Contract manufacturers benefit from a reproducible, scalable process that yields a free-flowing powder suitable for tablets, capsules, powders, and syrups.
Researchers gain a reliable, well-characterised ingredient for clinical and mechanistic studies, opening new avenues for exploring curcumin’s therapeutic potential.
The consumer advantage
For consumers and health professionals, this new science means more reliable, potent, and consistent curcumin supplementation. Enhanced stability and absorption mean that the full spectrum of turmeric’s health benefits—antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cognitive, and joint support—are now more accessible and effective than ever before.
Looking ahead
With this new patent, Arjuna Natural cements its leadership in turmeric research and innovation. BCM-95® stands as a testament to what’s possible when rigorous science meets a relentless pursuit of excellence. As curcumin science continues to evolve, BCM-95® is poised to lead the next generation of curcumin products—delivering innovation, credibility, and tangible health benefits to millions around the world.
