Effects of curcuma xanthorrhiza on appetite, calorie intake, and body weight: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Curcuma xanthorrhiza, or Javanese ginger, is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Indonesian medicine, particularly to increase appetite and support digestive health. Decreased appetite can lead to low calorie intake and weight changes, potentially leading to nutritional disorders. This study aims to systematically analyze the effects of Curcuma xanthorrhiza on appetite, calorie intake, and body weight based on published research. The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with reference to the PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was conducted through Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and SpringerLink using relevant keywords, with the inclusion criteria being articles from the last ten years, written in Indonesian or English, and discussing the variables of appetite, calorie intake, and/or body weight. The results showed that most studies reported increased appetite after administering Curcuma xanthorrhiza, which contributed to increased calorie intake and, under certain conditions, weight gain. These effects are related to the bioactive compounds in Javanese ginger, which play a role in improving digestive function and nutrient absorption. However, variation in results between studies suggests the need for standardization of dosage, dosage form, and duration of intervention. It was concluded that Curcuma xanthorrhiza has potential as a herbal agent to support appetite and nutritional status improvement. However, further research with a more robust methodological design is needed to strengthen the scientific evidence.