Evaluation and pharmacological activities of Curcuma zedoaria: A review

Abstract

Curcuma species are tropical crops used as cut flowers, landscape plants and speciality potted plants. Among these groups, the beautiful inflorescence and luxurious foliage of C. zedoary (Christm) Roscoe (a traditional source of Zedoary spice, tonic, and perfume) has potential in floriculture. Zedoary is a valuable medicinal plant; the essential oil obtained from its rhizomes is reported to have antimicrobial activity. It’s also used clinically in the treatment of cervical cancer, as the aqueous extract of zedoary has antimutagenic activity. In traditional Asian medicine, zedoary (Zedoariae rhizoma) is also used for treatment of stomach diseases, hepato-protection, and to promote menstruation. Furthermore, zedoary has anti-inflammatory potency related to its antioxidant.