| Abstrak/Abstract |
Kaempferia parviflora (KP), commonly known as black ginger, is an aromatic plant native to
Thailand, notable for its richness in methoxyflavones—distinct compounds possessing potent
pharmacological properties. Despite its promising bioactivity, the development of KP as a
therapeutic agent remains insufficiently explored, with existing research yet to be fully integrated.
This narrative review seeks to bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary pharmaceutical
research by comprehensively examining the ethnomedicinal applications, extraction techniques,
phytochemical composition, pharmacological investigations, conservation strategies, and by
identifying research gaps and developmental challenges associated with KP. Relevant studies
were selected from original publications in English or Indonesian, dated between 1980 and 2025,
and sourced through the Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. Findings indicate that
KP is widely distributed across Southeast Asia. The primary methoxyflavones identified include
5,7,4′-trimethoxyflavone, 5,7-dimethoxyflavone, 3,5,7,3′,4′-pentamethoxyflavone; along with
various essential oil constituents. Among conventional extraction techniques, maceration is
considered most suitable, whereas microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) proves most efficient for
isolating methoxyflavones, and supercritical CO₂ extraction is particularly effective for extracting
essential oils. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, KP has garnered modern scientific interest for
its anticancer, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory properties. Conservation efforts include in vitro
culture, vivipary, and shade management. This review highlights the potential of KP as a
promising source of novel therapeutic agents and emphasizes the need for further
multidisciplinary research to explore its bioactive compounds and promote their sustainable
utilization. |
