Phytochemistry and medicinal properties of Kaempferia galanga L. (Zingiberaceae) extracts

Kaempferia galanga L. (KG), commonly known as cekor is one of those precious medicinal herbs of Zingiberaceas that are still included in un-utilized herbs inspite of the variety of useful pharmacological properties it possesses. Extracts of KG have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, nematicidal, mosquito repellent, larvicidal, vasorelaxant, sedative, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antiallergic and wound healing properties. Here, we have reviewed all the reported pharmacological properties of this valuable herb with an intention to highlight the effectiveness and potentials of this herb. Ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate and ethyl-cinnamate are found to be the most vital constituents responsible for most of these pharmacological properties. Antinociceptive effect of KG extracts is comparable with that of aspirin whereas its nematicidal effect is even more potent than Carbofuran and metham sodium.