Eurycoma Longifolia Research Articles

Distinction of the Microcrystalline Celluloses from Eurycoma longifolia and Mannihot esculenta by Two-dimensional Correlation and Second Derivative IR Spectroscopy

Distinction of the Microcrystalline Celluloses from Eurycoma longifolia and Mannihot esculenta by Two-dimensional Correlation and Second Derivative IR Spectroscopy

Metabolome classification of Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia jack) and its commercial products via UHPLC-QTOF-MS-MS and its protective effect against 5-flurouracil-Induced testicular toxicity in male rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) is a chief herbal medicine that is well recognized for its aphrodisiac properties, available in various commercial products worldwide. Aim of the studyThe aim of this work is to identify the different classes of secondary metabolites present in Tongkat Ali commercial products versus authenticated root, and to assess its root extract mitigative effect against 5-flurouracil (5FU)-induced testicular toxicity. Materials and methodsHigh-resolution UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS metabolites analysis was utilized on the ethanolic Tongkat Ali extract (TAE) parallel to three Mlayasian commercial products, followed by a multivariate data analysis to understand the variability among UHPLC-MS metabolites datasets. Adult male rats were treated with 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) ± Tongkat Ali extract. Semen parameters, serum testosterone, LH, and FSH, and testicular oxidative stress biomarkers like malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) were analyzed. ResultsThe main categories of secondary metabolites identified through UHPLC-MS/MS profiling were quassinoids, alkaloids, fatty acids, lignans and coumarins. Long Jack Plus® ELP-2 clustered alongside authentic roots ELR on the negative side, while Naturelle® ELP-1 and Nu-Prep-LEAKI® ELP-3 were positioned on the opposite side. The OPLS-DA model was used to identify markers for preparations from authentic roots, with commercial products enriching in ailanthone epoxide. In vivo results showed that 5FU reduced sperm parameters by 42%, while TAE improved sperm quality by 35–43% and 58–74% at dose of 400 and 800 mg/kg, respectively. Testosterone, reduced by 74% with 5FU, increased 2.3- to 3.2-fold with TAE. TAE also reduced MDA by 31–62%, NF-κB by 32–55% and increased Nrf2 by 1–2 folds. ConclusionThe manuscript presents a comparative metabolomics study and in vivo investigation into the potential of Tongkat Ali root to improve testicular function in male rats intoxicated with 5FU, an area not previously explored. Further research is required to understand the mechanisms.

Estimation of Antioxidant, Anticancer and Cytotoxic Properties of Eurycoma longifolia Jack.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> <i>Eurycoma longifolia</i> roots hold traditional medicinal value, but scientific evaluation of their bioactivity and safety is lacking. This study investigated the antioxidant and anticancer potential of <i>E. longifolia</i> extracts and assessed cytotoxicity. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Methanol and ethyl acetate extraction were used to obtain <i>E. longifolia</i> root extracts. Antioxidant activity was measured by DPPH assay and antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects were assessed against various cell lines. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to compare the IC<sub>50</sub> values among the different groups. <b>Results:</b> The highest DPPH radical scavenging activity was detected in methanol extract (IC<sub>50</sub> = 65.50±6.74 μg/mL) and ethyl acetate extract (IC<sub>50</sub> = 463.52±59.81 μg/mL). The methanol extract displayed potent cytotoxicity against all tested cell lines, with IC<sub>50</sub> values ranging from 4.71-6.70 μg/mL. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited moderate cytotoxicity towards the non-cancerous LLC-MK2 cell line (IC<sub>50</sub> = 25.00±5.64 μg/mL), but retained high cytotoxicity against the cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and HeLa), with IC<sub>50</sub> values of 6.09±1.32 and 6.70±1.87 μg/mL, respectively. <b>Conclusion:</b> Methanol extract displayed strong antioxidant and antiproliferative activity, but also cytotoxicity in both cancerous and non-cancerous cells. Further research using <i>in vivo</i> models is needed to assess safety and identify specific bioactive compounds for responsible future use.

The Neurogenic Effects of Pasak bumi (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) and Seluang Fish (Rasbora spp.) in Malnutrition-Induced Rat

Highlights:1. This study analyzed the effects of using locally sourced pasak bumi extract and seluang fish on the parameters of neurogenesis in malnourished rat models.2. It promotes further exploration into modified treatments for malnutrition, emphasizing nutritional strategies that harness locally available natural resources. Abstract Early developmental malnutrition exerts adverse effects on the structural, neurochemical, and neurophysiological maturation of cerebral cells by disrupting the process of neurogenesis. Pasak bumi (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) and seluang fish (Rasbora spp.), two indigenous natural resources of South Kalimantan, Indonesia, are believed to harbor nutritional components capable of mitigating these deleterious effects. We aimed to assess the impact of administering pasak bumi, seluang fish, and pure docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the neurogenesis process in malnourished rat models. The Rattus norvegicus specimens were partitioned into seven distinct cohorts, each consisting of five rats: healthy rats in the negative control group (KN), while malnourished rats in the positive control (KP) and treatment groups (P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5). Both the KP and KN groups received a placebo and a standard feed. The treatment groups received different interventions for five weeks: standard feed alongside pasak bumi extract for the P1 group, standard feed and DHA for the P2 group, standard feed in combination with pasak bumi extract and DHA for the P3 group, seluang fish for the P4 group, and pasak bumi extract and seluang fish for the P5 group. The doses determined for the pasak bumi extract and DHA were 15 and 1 mg/kg bw, respectively. The parameters evaluated consisted of the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neural progenitor cell β-tubulin 3 (Tuj-1) expression, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). The data were subjected to analysis through the Kruskal-Wallis test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a 95% confidence level. A value of p<0.05 was considered significant. Statistically significant differences were observed in the BDNF levels (p=0.00) and Tuj-1 expressions (p=0.01) across all groups. In conclusion, the combined administration of pasak bumi and seluang fish demonstrates the capacity of enhancing neurogenesis in malnourished rats, as evidenced by elevated BDNF levels and Tuj-1 expressions.

Protective effect of Eurycoma Longifolia Extract on High-Fat Diet- induced histopathological changes in the Islets of Langerhans and Kidneys of Rats

Obesity has emerged as public health problems, potentially guiding to many diseases such as diabetes mellitus type 2 and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aims of the present investigation were to explore possible protective effect of Eurycoma longifolia (EL) extract on the islets of Langerhans and kidneys of high-fat diet (HFD) fed rats. Twenty four healthy adult male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomized into four groups (n=6) and treated for 12 weeks; normal control (ND) group received only normal diet, Group NDEL was received normal diet and EL, Group HFD received HFD only, Group HFDEL received HFD and EL extracts. The animals were scarified at the end of the 12th week; the kidneys and pancreatic tissues were fixed in 10% formal saline and processed for histological studies. The HFD group revealed hypertrophy of the pancreatic islets with congested blood vessels, vacuolization and injured cells. The kidney sections from the HFD treated group exhibited sever damage in the renal corpuscle and tubules. Treatment with EL extract produced an enhancement in tissue damage produced by HFD feeding in the kidneys and pancreatic islets. These observations confirmed positive valuable outcomes of EL extract against the HFD induced-cellular oxidative injury in the pancreatic islets and the kidneys.

Supplementation of sperm cooling medium with Eurycoma longifolia extract enhances native Thai chicken sperm quality and fertility potential.

Cooled semen storage methods result in oxidative stress generated by an imbalance between oxidation rates, specifically reactive oxygen species production, and sperm cell antioxidants, leading to degradation of semen quality. We aimed to investigate the impact of adding Eurycoma longifolia (EL) extract as an antioxidant supplement in semen storage medium (IGGKPh semen extender) on semen quality and fertility potential. EL extract at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/mL was assessed for its antioxidant capacity in IGGKPh semen extender. Our findings revealed that the total phenolic content in the EL extract did not vary significantly across the various concentrations and temperatures tested. However, incubation at 5°C was found to be the most effective temperature for increasing the EL extract antioxidant capacity as assessed via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl inhibition assay in a dose-dependent manner. Supplementation of the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract was found to enhance semen quality during cold storage for up to 48 h (p < 0.05), as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde levels in cooled semen (p < 0.05). However, antioxidant enzyme activities showed no significant differences among the various experimental groups (p > 0.05). The fertility test showed that the 15 mg/mL EL extract group stored for 24 h had a higher percentage than the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in percentage between the two groups at 48 h of storage (p > 0.05). The hatchability showed no significant difference in both 24 and 48-h storage periods (p > 0.05). Our results indicated that supplementing the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract may positively influence semen quality during storage, suggesting potential applications for enhancing semen quality.

Enhancing bioactive compounds in hairy roots culture of precious medicinal plant Eurycoma longifolia Jack. through LED elicitation

Enhancing bioactive compounds in hairy roots culture of precious medicinal plant Eurycoma longifolia Jack. through LED elicitation

Eurycomanone inhibits osteosarcoma growth and metastasis by suppressing GRP78 expression

Ethnopharmacological relevanceOsteosarcoma (OS) is characterized by rapid growth and frequent pulmonary metastasis. Eurycoma longifolia Jack, a flowering plant primarily found in Southeast Asian countries, is commonly used in traditional herbal medicine. Its root extract is mainly used for against cancer, malaria, parasites and other conditions. The active compound in its root extract, eurycomanone (EUR), has been proven to inhibit lung and liver cancer proliferation. Aim of the studyOur research aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect and underlying molecular mechanism of EUR on OS growth and metastasis. Materials and methodsIn vitro experiments: western blotting (WB) screened 41 compounds that inhibited GRP78 expression and evaluated the protein levels of GRP78, PARP, cleaved-PARP, MMP2, and MMP9. Cell proliferation was evaluated using CCK-8, EdU, colony formation assay, and cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Transwell, wound healing, and tube formation assays were performed to determine the effect of EUR on tumor invasion, migration, and angiogenesis, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain (qRT-PCR) and dual-luciferase activity assays detected GRP78 mRNA stability and transcription levels post-EUR and thapsigargin treatment. RNA-Seq identified signaling pathways inhibited by EUR. In vivo experiments: effects of EUR in mice were evaluated by H&E staining to detect lung metastasis and potential toxic effects in tissues. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining detected the expression of Ki-67, CD31, and cleaved caspase-3 in tumors. ResultsGRP78 is highly expressed in OS and correlated with poor prognosis. In vitro, eurycomanone (EUR) significantly downregulated GRP78 expression, inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation, and induced apoptosis. Moreover, it enhanced trichostatin A (TSA) sensitivity and exhibited inhibitory effects on other cancer types. Mechanistically, EUR decreased GRP78 mRNA stability and transcription. In vivo, EUR inhibited proliferation and invasion in tibial and PDX models. ConclusionsOur study demonstrated that EUR inhibits the growth and metastasis of OS by reducing GRP78 mRNA stability and inhibiting its transcription, which offers a novel approach for clinical treatment of OS.

Stimulatory effect of eurycomanone from Eurycoma longifolia Jack roots on dopamine secretion in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line

Eurycomanone has been identified as the major bioactive compound contributing to Eurycoma longifolia (EL) aphrodisiac activity, however, its mechanism of action remains obscured. Presently, eurycomanone was isolated from EL root extract and its molecular structure was identified. The human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line was differentiated into human dopaminergic neuron-like cells. Exogenous dopamine levels from the differentiated SH-SY5Y cells were quantified following the treatment of 5, 10, 15 μM of eurycomanone and 10 μM clorgyline as positive control. Dopamine secretion was significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner, compared to the vehicle control (p < .01) in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Dopamine concentration stimulated by 15 μM eurycomanone was significantly higher than clorgyline (p < .05), an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase A that suppresses dopamine catabolism. In conclusion, eurycomanone stimulated dopamine release of human SH-SY5Y neuron-like cells, which could be one of the mechanisms that underpin the aphrodisiac properties of the plant.

Perfil das prescrições de fitoterápicos anabolizantes comercializados por uma farmácia magistral no Rio de Janeiro

Introduction: Since antiquity, humans have used plants for various purposes, including improving physical performance. However, in recent years, the search for herbal medicines aimed at mimicking the anabolic effect, with lower health risks and without being detected in doping control, has sparked the interest of athletes and gym users. Objective: To evaluate which herbal drugs with possible androgenic activity are prescribed as magistral formulations in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Method: Data from 10,276 prescriptions recorded in the database of a network of compounding pharmacies located in the city of Rio de Janeiro between January and December 2020 were collected and analyzed. The prescribed and dispensed formulations contained Ajuga turkestanica, Cyanotis vaga, Eurycoma longifolia, Lepidium meyenii, Mucuna pruriens, Tribulus terrestris, Trigonella foenum-graecum, and Withania somnifera. Results: Most prescriptions (57.0%) were for women, prescribed by specialists in orthomolecular medicine (38.0%), and only 4.0% of prescriptions were prescribed by nutritionists. Regarding the types of medications, 8,116 prescriptions (79.0%) were formulations of combinations of one or more anabolic herbal drugs with pharmaceuticals. M. pruriens was the most prescribed herbal drug (29.0%), with or without combination. Conclusions: Most of the prescribed plants still do not have proven efficacy and safety regarding anabolic action; therefore more clinical studies are necessary to determine the possible drug interactions and adverse effects of these herbal drugs.

Performance of The White-Rumped Shama (Copysychus malabaricus) Reproduction by Providing Eurycoma longifolia at The Captivity

This research aims to determine the reproductive capacity of the White-Rumped Shama provided by Eurycoma longifolia in terms of duration of couple introduction or adjustment period, duration of mating period until laying eggs, number of eggs, number of hatched eggs, and number of survived baby animals until 5 days of living. The laboratory experimental method is performed in the White-Rumped Shama captivity in Bogor. Before the treatment, the birds are matched in each bird cage. The White-Rumped Shamas are divided randomly into 2 groups, each of which consists of 5 pairs (5 repetitions). The first group (K1) as a control, male magpie parents were given the treatment of drinking distilled water after fasting for one hour every morning, Group 2 (K2) as the Eurycoma longifolia treatment group, male White-Rumped Shama parents were given the optimal dose of Eurycoma longifolia, 9 mg/100 of the body weight every morning for 5 days which was converted from the results of research on the treatment of giving Eurycoma longifolia to white rats. Statistical analysis of two tailed T test, Levene's test on data between the control group (K1) and the Eurycoma longifolia group (K2) showed that; Behavior: Jumping, flying, perching on the perchs, approaching the female, chirping, singing, crouching while near to the female while making a distinctive chirp, eating and drinking, duration of time until laying eggs in the mating cage (days), number of eggs in the nest (items ). The number of hatched eggs from those hatched (grains), the number of offspring that survived to the age of 5 days (tails), there were no significant differences between the control group (K1) and the Eurycoma longifolia treatment group (K2).

Peningkatan Aktivitas Afrodisiak Mikroemulsi Icariin, Ekstrak Purwaceng dan Ekstrak Pasak Bumi

Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to medical issues concerning men's sexual health. Purwaceng, pasak bumi, and epimedium plants contain aphrodisiac compounds that can boost stamina, libido (sexual desire), and male fertility. The formula for microemulsions is 80: PEG 400: oil shavings in a ratio of 73.6711: 12.5705: 13.7584, with icariin, purwaceng, and pasak bumi added. The microemulsion system was created because it contained a large number of active ingredients. The stability of a microemulsion is further influenced by surfactants (tween 80) and cosurfactants (PEG 400) as emulsifiers, as well as the oil used as a solvent for the active component (bottled oil). The goal of this study was to create a microemulsion that would mix icariin, pasak bumi, and purwaceng substances to improve solubility and synergize pharmacological effects. The formulation is optimized using Simplex Lattice Design (SLD) to produce the optimal formula. The microemulsion formulations of icariin, pasak bumi extract, and purwaceng extract produce optimal microemulsions and enter into good microemulsion susceptibility. They can also increase the aphrodisiac effectiveness when compared to the administration of the single active substance icariin, pasak bumi extract, and purwaceng extract. As a result, this product exhibits microemulsion capabilities, allowing it to minimize dose while increasing effect.

Effectiveness of Herbal medicines on male reproductive system: Evidence from meta-analysis

BackgroundThe increasing prevalence of male infertility has become a global concern. Traditional Chinese and Asian medicines have long been using herbal remedies to promote spermatogenesis. This study aimed to systematically explore the potential of herbal medicines and formulations to enhance the male reproductive function in humans. MethodsTwo prominent databases, MEDLINE and EMBASE, as well as scientific journals indexed in the Web of Science, were used for the literature search until October 2023. The studies included in the analysis focused on the impact of herbal medicines (Mucuna pruriens, Withania somnifera, Eurycoma longifolia, Panax ginseng, Lycopersicon esculentum, Crocus sativus, Vitis vinifera, Nigella sativa, Sesamum indicum, Curcuma longa, Lepidium peruvianum) and Chinese and Korean Polyherbal formulations (Shao-Fu-Zhu-Yu-Tang; 少腹逐瘀汤) on human serum reproductive hormone levels, semen parameters, and antioxidant enzymes. ResultsA total of 23 articles were deemed eligible for the review and meta-analysis, which included 1,194 men from seven countries (China, Korea, Iran, Peru, Japan, Malaysia, and India). Of these, 19 articles were analyzed for semen parameters. The use of herbal medicine increased seminal parameters, including semen volume during each ejaculation (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.89; 95 % CI: 0.52, 1.26), sperm concentration (SMD = 1.97; 95 % CI: 1.30, 2.64), total sperm count (SMD = 2.28; 95 % CI: 1.44, 3.11), sperm motility (SMD = 1.07; 95 % CI: 0.68, 1.46), and normal morphology (SMD = 1.47; 95 % CI: 0.62, 2.32). Additionally, 18 articles that analyzed sex hormone levels showed that treatment with herbal medicines favorably reduced serum prolactin (SMD = -0.70; 95 % CI: -1.13, -0.28) and FSH levels (SMD = -1.07; 95 % CI: -1.56, -0.56). Meanwhile, herbal medicines did not affect testosterone levels (SMD = 0.41; 95 % CI: -0.24, 1.06) and LH levels (SMD = 0.45; 95 % CI: -0.33, 1.23). Finally, six articles were analyzed for seminal biochemical and antioxidant profiles, and the results showed that herbal medicine increased the levels of ascorbic acid (SMD = 1.19; 95 % CI: 0.51, 1.86), corrected seminal fructose (SMD = 1.32; 95 % CI: 0.89, 1.76), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) (SMD = 1.06; 95 % CI: 0.45, 1.68), and catalase activity (SMD = 0.91; 95 % CI: 0.69, 1.44) in seminal plasma. ConclusionHerbal remedies have been found to promote spermatogenesis by optimizing semen parameters, sex hormone levels, and antioxidant profiles. As a result, these treatments should be regarded as complementary approaches to male infertility.

Antiviral Activity of Physta®, Standardised Water Extract of Eurycoma longifolia against SARS-CoV-2: An in vitro Study

Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Simaroubaceae) root extract is known to exhibit antiinflammatory, antiviral and immunomodulatory activities. Therefore, E. longifolia, through a multimodal approach could potentially be used in COVID-19 management. However, to date there has been no investigation into the antiviral activity of E. longifolia root extract against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The objective of the study is to investigate the antiviral activity of Physta® (a standardised water extract of E. longifolia) against SARS-CoV-2. A mitochondrial metabolic activity assay using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) was used to determine the cytotoxicity of the Physta® extract in Vero cells, with concentrations ranging from 1.95 µg/mL to 1,000 µg/mL. Physta® was tested for antiviral activity at six different concentrations, ranging from 3.12 µg/mL to 50 µg/mL. The half maximal cytotoxic concentration (CC50) value of Physta® against Vero cells was estimated at 1,117 µg/mL and the maximum non-toxic dose (MNTD) value was estimated at 60 µg/mL. Physta® inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in a dose-dependent manner, and the half maximal inhibition concentration (IC50) was estimated to be 36.3 µg/mL. This study has demonstrated the antiviral activity of Physta® against SARS-CoV-2. Future evaluations in animal and clinical settings should be conducted to determine whether Physta® can be used alone or in combination with other antiviral agents to alleviate COVID-19.

PLS-based integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics to reveal the effect of different growth years on Eurycoma longifolia roots and hairy root cultures

Growth years are important factors that affect the accumulation of secondary metabolites in Eurycoma longifolia roots. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different growth years on the metabolites and gene expression of E. longifolia roots and hairy root cultures. To achieve this, metabolite profiles and candidate transcripts of terpenoid backbone biosynthesis and sesquiterpenoid and triterpenoid pathways of 1- and 11-year old E. longifolia roots and hairy root cultures were obtained and integrated using partial least squares (PLS). Integration of eighty-two metabolites and forty-five selected candidate genes using PLS successfully differentiated 1-, 11-year-old E. longifolia roots and hairy root cultures, indicating significant metabolite-gene expression differences in response to different growth years and root types. Amino acids, 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate cytidylyl-transferase (MCT) and acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase (AACT) were responsible for the discrimination of 1-year-old E. longifolia root. Quassinoids of eurycomanone and eurycomalactone and genes linked to the upstream synthesis in mevalonate (MVA) pathway contributed to the discrimination of the11-year-old E. longifolia root. 11-hydroxycanthin-6-one and genes that participate in the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway upstream of terpenoid biosynthesis were responsible for the discrimination of E. longifolia hairy root cultures.

Effects of herbal plant supplementation on rumen fermentation profiles and protozoan population in vitro.

In the livestock sector, particularly ruminants, an approach to minimize methane emissions can be carried out through a feeding strategy involving herbal plants containing bioactive compounds that can reduce protozoa and decrease methane gas emissions. The aim of this in vitro study was to analyze the effects of herbal plant supplementation on rumen fermentation, total gas, and methane production, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), and protozoa populations within the rumen. Two experiments were conducted in this study. Experiment 1 was conducted to determine the most promising herbal plants capable of increasing total gas production and reducing protozoan populations. Three potential herbals selected in Experiment 1 were continued in Experiment 2 as supplements in the palm kernel meal (PKM)-based ration (70% PKM + 30% herbal plants). Experiment 1 revealed that Eurycoma longifolia (EL), Cola acuminata (CLA), and Cassia alata (CSA) were potential herbal candidates for enhancing total gas production and the percentages of IVDMD and IVOMD. In Experiment 2, supplementation with EL, CLA, and CSA significantly increased IVDMD from 62.84% to 70.15%, IVOMD from 61.61% to 53.18%, and NH3 from 13 mM to 17 mM, as well as reduced partial volatile fatty acids and total gas production. In addition, the methane gas and protozoan populations were reduced. The utilization of EL, CLA, and CSA effectively increased the production of total gas, IVDMD, and IVOMD while reducing methane gas protozoa populations in rumen fermentation compared with the control.

Preliminary survey of medicinal plants in Soga-Perdana Forest Eco-Park Johor, Malaysia

Malaysian forests are home to rich biological diversity, many of which have potential medicinal values. However, like in many other ecosystems worldwide, these forests are in the brink of biodiversity loss caused by natural and anthropogenic pressures. This study presents the preliminary survey of medicinal plants in Soga-Perdana Forest Eco-Park Johor, Peninsular Malaysia. A rapid biodiversity assessment (RBA) method along the 2000 m by 20 m transect was used to collect taxonomic and ecological data. From the survey, 55 species of plants with known traditional medicinal uses were recorded, with Coscinium fenestratum categorised by IUCN as a critically endangered species. Aside from species that are traditionally used by indigenous people, some were commercially important species in medicine and timber production, namely Eurycoma longifolia, Dryobalanops aromatica and Shorea leprosula. This study provides evidence that even a small patch of forest surrounded by urbanised area and other land uses contains high diversity of plants with potential medicinal values. This calls for long-term conservation and effective management of this ecosystem, not only for the perpetuity of these species, but also to harness its potential scientific value in the field of pharmaceuticals and other areas related to biological diversity.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants by indigenous community of Aek Guo Village, Mandailing Natal District, Indonesia

Abstract. Rambey R, Nelasufa F, Athoriez APM, Solihin, Rahmawaty, Susilowati A, Afifuddin Y. 2024. Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants by indigenous community of Aek Guo Village, Mandailing Natal District, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 1046-1056. Aek Guo Village, Mandailing Natal District, Indonesia, falling under the jurisdiction of Forest Management Unit or Kesatuan Pengelolaan Hutan (KPH) IX Panyabungan, serves as a home for the Mandailing indigenous tribe, primarily engaged in agriculture with a significant dependence on the forest for sustenance. Within the cultural fabric of the Aek Guo community, there exists a profound tradition of employing medicinal plants as an alternative form of treatment, a practice deeply rooted in ethnobotanical knowledge passed down through generations. The study aimed to identify the diverse array of medicinal plants, their utilization practices, and key parameters such as Use Value (UV), Family Use Value (FUV), Plant Part Value (PPV), and Fidelity Level (FL) associated with their applications. A comprehensive approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative methods, the study involves semi-structured interviews and meticulous documentation. The findings reveal a rich repertoire of 66 plant species distributed across 36 families, constituting a vital component of the Aek Guo community. Noteworthy is the pre-eminence of ginger (Zingiber officinale) with the highest UV value (0.68), while paku gajah (Angiopteris evecta) being the lowest (0.01). Family Use Value (FUV) demonstrated variations, with Fabaceae leading the chart (0.39), and Simaroubaceae recording the lowest value (0.01). A closer examination of Plant Part Value (PPV) indicated a preference for leaves, comprising 56.06% of the utilized plant parts, while flowers contribute minimally at 1.51%. Fidelity Level (FL) values, crucial for assessing the significance of particular plants within the community, peak for kumis kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus) and ginger (Z. officinale) at 22.54%. In contrast, jerangau (Acorus calamus), pasak bumi (Eurycoma longifolia), salam (Syzygium polyanthum), and paku gajah (A. evecta) exhibit the lowest FL values at 1.41%. These findings contribute significantly to the broader understanding of ethnobotanical practices across different Mandailing communities, with potential implications for conservation, healthcare, and sustainable resource management.

Unveiling the Anticancer Potential of Pasak Bumi (Eurycoma Longifolia Jack) Root Extract in Prostate Cancer Treatment.

Prostate cancer remains a significant global health concern, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic avenues to enhance treatment efficacy and mitigate adverse effects. Objective This study delves into the potential anticancer properties of Pasak Bumi (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) root extract, a traditional Southeast Asian medicinal plant, against prostate cancer. The research employs a multifaceted approach, encompassing molecular and cellular analyses to unravel the intricate mechanisms underlying Pasak Bumi's effects on prostate cancer cells. Primary focus is given to the PTEN/P13k/Akt pathway, a critical regulator of cell survival and apoptosis. Various concentrations of Pasak Bumi root extract are applied to prostate cancer cell lines, and the impact on apoptosis, cell proliferation, and key molecular targets is assessed. Preliminary findings reveal that Pasak Bumi root extract induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells, evidenced by downstream molecular events associated with programmed cell death. The extract demonstrates concentration-dependent effects, with higher concentrations exhibiting more pronounced anticancer activity. Moreover, Pasak Bumi root extract appears to modulate the PTEN/P13k/Akt pathway, providing a potential mechanistic link to its anticancer effects. Discussion: The study's significance lies in its contribution to the evolving landscape of natural compounds as anticancer agents, particularly in the context of prostate cancer. Pasak Bumi's traditional use as a medicinal plant, coupled with emerging scientific evidence, underscores its potential translational value. The observed modulation of the PTEN/P13k/Akt pathway aligns with the current understanding of prostate cancer pathogenesis, offering a plausible explanation for Pasak Bumi's anticancer effects. This research sheds light on the promising anticancer potential of Pasak Bumi root extract against prostate cancer. Further exploration of its molecular interactions, synergy with conventional therapies, and efficacy at different stages of cancer progression is warranted. The findings present Pasak Bumi as a nature-inspired candidate for prostate cancer treatment, warranting continued investigation into its therapeutic applications. As the scientific community endeavors to enhance cancer treatment modalities, Pasak Bumi emerges as a captivating subject in the pursuit of effective and minimally invasive prostate cancer therapies.

Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) supplementation enhances sleep and wake consolidation in wild-type, but not in narcoleptic mice.

Tongkat Ali (TA), also known as Eurycoma longifolia, has been used as a traditional herbal medicine for anti-aging, evidenced by clinical trials presenting the beneficial effects on energy, fatigue, and mood disturbance. We have recently shown that TA supplementation dose-dependently enhances the rest-activity pattern in C57BL/6 mice. Since destabilization of wakefulness and sleep is one of the typical symptoms of not only the elderly but also narcolepsy, we performed sleep analysis with and without dietary TA extract supplementation in middle-aged (10-12 months old) wild-type (WT) and narcoleptic DTA mice. We found that TA supplementation enhanced diurnal rhythms of locomotion and temperature in a time-of-day-dependent manner in WT mice but attenuated in DTA mice. In WT mice, TA supplementation consolidated wakefulness with a long bout duration and led to less entries into the sleep state during the active period, while it consolidated NREM sleep with long bout duration during the resting period. Neither disturbed sleep and wake cycles nor cataplexy was sufficiently improved in DTA mice. EEG spectral analysis revealed that TA supplementation enhanced slow wave activity (SWA) at both delta and low delta frequencies (0.5-4.0 and 0.5-2.0 Hz) during the light period, suggesting TA extract may induce vigilance during the active period, which then elicits a rebound effect during the resting period. Interestingly, DTA mice also slightly, but significantly, increased SWA at low frequencies during the light period. Taken together, our results suggest that TA supplementation enhances the Yin-Yang balance of sleep, temperature, and locomotion in WT mice, while its efficacy is limited in narcoleptic mice.