Development of a rapid, sensitive, and selective <scp>LC–MS</scp>/<scp>MS</scp> method for quantifying curcumin levels in healthy human urine: Effect of pepper on curcumin bioavailability

Abstract Curcumin (CCM), a culinary spice, is widely consumed for its health benefits managing oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, hyperlipidemia. However, due to extensive metabolism, the oral bioavailability of CCM very low. In this study, we developed rapid, sensitive, selective assay examine hypothesis that piperine improves after co‐ingestion. We selective, robust LC–MS/MS method quantify in human urine. The was linear over concentration range 0.625–40 ng/mL with LLOQ LLOD 0.625 0.312 ng/mL, respectively. Healthy volunteers have test meals as turmeric powder without black pepper 1 week wash out. Urine samples were collected 24 hours analyzed excretion. Black increased half‐life from 2.2 ± 0.79 h (CCM alone) 4.5 0.80 + pepper). 24‐h urinary excreted amount higher individuals consuming (218.14 94.98 μg) than those who received only (49.45 12.94 μg). This preliminary study indicates significantly absorption, reduced systemic clearance, improved bioavailability.