Comparative Evaluation of Potential Phytopharmacological and Nutritional Properties of Some Indigenous Rhizomes of Zingiberaceae Family (Alpinia Calcarata, Alpinia Galanga, Alpinia Zerumbet) Localized in Southeast Asia

This review examines the phytopharmacological and nutritional properties of three rhizomes from the Zingiberaceae family—Alpinia calcarata, Alpinia galanga, and Alpinia zerumbet—commonly used in Southeast Asia for their therapeutic benefits. A. calcarata is noted for its fibre and micronutrient content, making it a potential functional food ingredient. A. galanga exhibits strong antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, with potential cytotoxic effects against cancer cells, attributed to its flavonoids and phenolic compounds. A. zerumbet is recognized for its anti-hypertensive and cardiovascular benefits, due to bioactive compounds like zerumbone and kaempferol. The review underscores the need for further research to validate traditional uses and explore nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.