East Indian arrowroot
Curcuma angustifolia
Curcuma angustifolia is a plant traditionally significant among the Tai Yoy community in Akat Amnuai District, though its specific traditional uses are not well-documented. Scientific evidence suggests that a bioactive fraction from its rhizome has shown anti-diabetic effects both in vitro and in vivo, potentially by regulating the AMPK/PKA signaling pathway. Additionally, the methanolic extract of Curcuma angustifolia leaves demonstrated moderate inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which are relevant to managing blood sugar levels. While seven Zingiberaceae species from Manipur have shown notable antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, with Curcuma caesia and Zingiber officinale exhibiting superior efficacy, the specific role of C. angustifolia in this context is less clear. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions are associated with C. angustifolia, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and applications.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study documents the cultural significance and economic value of Curcuma angustifolia among the Tai Yoy community in Akat Amnuai District.
- The study found that a bioactive fraction from Curcuma angustifolia rhizome showed anti-diabetic effects in vitro, in silico, and in vivo by regulating AMPK/PKA signaling pathway.
- The methanolic extract of Curcuma angustifolia leaves showed moderate inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.
- Seven Zingiberaceae species from Manipur showed notable antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, with Curcuma caesia and Zingiber officinale exhibiting superior efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
What is East Indian arrowroot?
East Indian arrowroot (Curcuma angustifolia) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about East Indian arrowroot?
4 sourced findings are recorded for East Indian arrowroot; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study documents the cultural significance and economic value of Curcuma angustifolia among the Tai Yoy community in Akat Amnuai District.
How strong is the evidence for East Indian arrowroot?
The strongest finding for East Indian arrowroot carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is East Indian arrowroot safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for East Indian arrowroot in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does East Indian arrowroot interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for East Indian arrowroot in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is East Indian arrowroot a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Comprehensive Metabolomic and Bioactivity Profiling of Zingiberaceae Species From Manipur: Elucidating Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Mechanisms Through In Vitro and In Silico Approaches. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical Composition and Inhibitory Effects of Curcuma angustifolia Leaves Extracts Against α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Enzymes Associated With Hyperglycaemia: In Vitro and In Silico Analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Bioactive fraction isolated from Curcuma angustifolia rhizome exerts anti-diabetic effects in vitro, in silico and in vivo by regulating AMPK/PKA signaling pathway. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Utilization of Wild Edible Plants by the Tai Yoy Ethnic Group in Akat Amnuai District, Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand. literature abstract metadata