Curcuma, most commonly referring to Curcuma longa (turmeric), has a long-standing history of traditional use in various herbal medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its primary bioactive constituent, curcumin, is noted for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In traditional medicine, turmeric has been used for a wide array of conditions, including those involving inflammation and urinary complaints, which may overlap with symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, there is minimal direct documentation in classical texts or ethnobotanical literature specifically describing turmeric as a primary remedy for BPH.

Modern scientific research investigating curcumin’s effects on BPH is limited. A small number of preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies suggest potential mechanisms by which curcumin might ameliorate BPH—such as reducing prostatic inflammation, modulating androgen receptor activity, or inhibiting cell proliferation in prostate tissue. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the evidence base is insufficient to confidently recommend Curcuma for BPH management based on scientific grounds. Thus, its use for BPH is best described as rooted in broad traditional use for genitourinary and inflammatory issues, with very limited and low-quality scientific support specific to BPH.