Review: Rhizophora mucronata as source of foods and medicines

Abstract

Abstract. Setyawan AD, Ragavan P, Basyuni M, Sarno S. 2019. Review: Rhizophora mucronata as source of foods and medicines. Bonorowo Wetlands 9: 42-55. Rhizophora mucronata Poir is a type of mangrove plant that is widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific (Indian and Pacific Oceans) region. This plant is mainly harvested for its wood for charcoal, firewood, and building materials. In addition, the bark and its propagule are used for natural dyes and leather tanning. However, its use in the food and health sector is still limited. This review intends to collect, compile, and summarize the use of R. mucronata as a source of food and medicinal ingredients. As a result, the starch obtained from R. mucronata propagule can be used as a carbohydrate source after removing the tannin content. In the health sector, various parts of this plant organ are traditionally used to remedy diarrhea, hepatitis, ulcers, etc. Further research shows that extraction with multiple solvents across multiple plant organs can be an antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial (antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial). The main constituent of this plant is tannins, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which affect their biological/pharmacological activities. The part of the organ used and the extraction method significantly affects the chemical content produced, thus affecting its effect in treatment.