Effects of Curcuma longa L. and Green Propolis Extract-Loaded Microcapsules Supplementation on Inflammation in Hemodialysis Patients: Preliminary Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Foods such as Curcuma longa L. and propolis can attenuate inflammation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of microcapsules loaded with Curcuma longa L. and propolis on inflammatory markers and uremic toxins in patients undergoing HD. In this randomized, double-blind clinical trial, 40 patients were divided into two groups: an intervention group (137 mg/day of Curcuma and 500 mg/day of green propolis) in the form of microcapsules, and a placebo group, both administered for 8 weeks. Cytokines were analyzed using a multiplex assay (Bio-Plex Magpix (R)). Malondialdehyde was evaluated as a marker of lipid peroxidation. Uremic toxins were analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from medical records. A total of 38 patients completed the study: 18 were in the intervention group (49 +/- 16.2 years; 8 men) and 20 were in the control group (49 +/- 18.7 years; 10 men). There was a reduction in levels of C-reactive protein (p = 0.026) and MIP-1 (p = 0.019) in the intervention group. No change in uremic toxins was observed. In conclusion, the intervention with microcapsules containing Curcuma longa L. and green propolis showed potential anti-inflammatory effects in patients with CKD undergoing HD. These findings warrant investigation in larger, long-term trials.