Vladimir Badmaev, M.D., Ph.D., vice president of scientific and medical affairs with Sabinsa Corporation will be presenting "Curcuminoids: A Versatile Phytonutrient from Curcuma longa" at a one-day science symposium dedicated to the contribution of pharmacognosy to the quality of clinical trials of dietary supplements being held in conjunction with the 48th annual American Society of Pharmacognosy conference. Dr. Badmaev's presentation will highlight pre-clinical and clinical studies surrounding curcuminoids and will take place on Saturday, July 14, 2007, from 12 - 12:25 p.m. at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland, Maine.

"This symposium provides a unique venue to address critical issues surrounding botanicals research with individuals who are continually pushing scientific research to a new level," noted Dr. Badmaev.

"Curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin are collectively known as curcuminoids, and are derived from Curcuma longa L, also known as turmeric. Turmeric is a member of the ginger family and native to southern Asia. Due to their strong antioxidant power, curcuminoids have been recognized as some of the most promising foodderived compounds in fighting a variety of degenerative diseases. However, unlike many antioxidants, curcuminoids are capable of both preventing free radical formation, as well as neutralizing existing free radicals, and are considered an effective bioprotectant due to this dual activity. For more information on curcuminoids, visit www.curcuminoids.com.

The American Society of Pharmacognosy (ASP) was founded in 1959 with the goal of bringing together men and women dedicated to the promotion, growth and development not only of pharmacognosy, but all aspects of science related to and dealing in natural products. The Society currently has more than 1,100 members, 40 percent of whom reside outside of the U.S. and Canada and represent more than 60 countries throughout the world. For more information on ASP, visit www.phcog.org.