A phytochemical screening of Bakkala (Etlingera elatior) originated from suakbugis, Aceh, Indonesia and its potential in ethnobotany

Abstract

Etlingera elatior is commonly used as a spices mixed in food and vegetables by Acehnese people. Because these plant species has a strong scent that will make food tasty. However, the use of Etlingera elatior as a medical plant in Acehnese society is still limited. Hence, we need to reveal the potential of Etlingera elatior by phytochemical screening. This study aims to determine the secondary metabolites of Etlingera elatior originated from SuakBugis and its potential in ethnobotanical studies. The research was conducted in SuakBugis, Nagan Raya District, Aceh, Indonesia. The laboratory experiment was conducted at Regional Health Laboratory, Jakarta. These research was begun from September to October 2020.The results of phytochemical screening showed that leaves of Etlingera elatior detected chemical compositions i.e. flavonoids, phenols, tannins, steroids, saponins and alkaloids; Etlingera elatior flowers extracts detected the presence of flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, saponins and alkaloids; Etlingera elatior fruit extract contains chemical substances i.e. flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids and alkaloids. Furthermore, hopefully, based on the chemical compositions of Etlingera elatior will bring benefit in ethnobotanical studies, especially traditional medicine and natural cosmetic ingredients.