Immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms of the extracts and secondary compounds of Zingiber and Alpinia species: a review

Zingiber and Alpinia species (family: Zingiberaceae) are popularly used in food as spices flavoring agents ethnomedicine to heal numerous diseases, including immune-related disorders. However, their ethnomedicinal uses have not been sufficiently supported by scientific investigations. Numerous studies on the modulating effects of plants bioactive compounds different steps immune system documented. This review aimed highlight up-to-date research findings critically analyze modulatory mechanisms extracts secondary several species, namely, officinale Roscoe, Z. cassumunar Roxb., zerumbet (L.) Roscoe ex Sm., galanga Linn., A. conchigera Griff, katsumadai Hayata, oxyphylla Miq., officinarum Hance, (Pers.) Burtt. et Smith, purpurata (Viell.) K. Schum. system, particularly via inflammation-related signaling pathways. The immunomodulating activities crude reported, but constituents contributing mostly identified. Among extracts, were most investigated for vitro , vivo clinical system. metabolites, 6-, 8-, 10-gingerols, 6-shogaol, zerumbone from cardamomin, 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate, yakuchinone, rutin, 1,8-cineole, lectin demonstrated strong effects. More experimental using cell animal models disorders necessary further understand underlying mechanisms, together with elaborate preclinical pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, bioavailability, toxicity studies. Many these metabolites potential candidates development or functional foods prevent treat chronic inflammatory