Liposomal formulations and polymer conjugates of curcumin, curcumin analogs and derivatives thereof for parenteral administration are disclosed herein. The formulations are effective in the treatment of progressive supranuclear palsy, Alzheimers disease (AD), Parkinsons disease (PD), Tauopathies or stress disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Curcumin crosses the blood brain barrier, localizes in the hippocampus and striata, prevents stress-induced neuronal cell damage, and stimulates neurogenesis and remediation of damaged neural circuits.