Therapeutic Potential of the Herbal Plant Uncaria gambir: A Systematic Review

Background: Uncaria gambir is an Indonesian medicinal herb with healing effects. This plant contains flavonoids, which can be used as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents to accelerate healing. In Indonesia, Uncaria gambir is widely accessible, simple to grow, and has a long history of use as an alternative medicine. Following this, studies are conducted in the medical industry using Uncaria gambir. Objective: This study aimed to comprehensively review the use of Uncaria gambir extract as an herbal plant for treating experimental animals. Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses guidelines, and the risk of bias was evaluated by modifying the ARRIVE guidelines. Results: A report was presented on review articles from 12 publications sourced from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, ProQuest, EBSCO Host, and other relevant studies. The Uncaria gambir isolates tested were catechin and ethyl acetate, used primarily for lesions, pain, edema, and diabetes in experimental Wistar rats. Conclusion: Uncaria gambir is an herbal plant that contains flavonoids, which can be used as antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective agents and can potentially be applied in the medical field as adjuvant therapy.