Kaempferia galanga Linn: A systematic review of phytochemistry, extraction technique, and pharmacological activities

Abstract

Kaempferia galanga Linn is an endangered medicinal plant that contains high value essentials. This plant belongs to the Zingiberaceae family and is used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, as well as food. This paper aims to review the research progress on K. galanga Linn, particularly on the phytochemistry and extraction process of this plant, including a new perspective on its pharmacological activities. Data and information on this aromatic ginger were collected and summarised from various resources, mainly from Science Direct and Web of Science. The main bioactive compounds extracted from its rhizome were ethyl cinnamate, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, kaempferol, camphene, linoleoyl, borneol, and 1,8-cineole. These bioactive compounds have numerous nutraceutical properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, analgesic, anti-tuberculosis, anticancer, wound healing, and mosquito repellent. Furthermore, chemical characterisation, in vitro analysis, and in vivo biological studies have confirmed the traditional uses of this plant.