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Health issues among the elderly are often related to declining bodily functions, digestive disorders, and specific nutritional needs for easily digestible foods. The 60-and-older age group is at high risk for gastrointestinal disorders due to low fiber intake. Therefore, alternative foods are needed that are soft in texture, neutral in taste, safe, and nutritious. One potential solution is the development of food products based on tempeh gembus with the addition of banana hearts, which are rich in fiber, soft in texture, and readily available. This study employed an experimental method using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to test three formulation variations (F1, F2, F3). The nutritional content of formulation F1 includes energy 111.575 kcal, carbohydrates 20.185 g, protein 6.91 g, fat 0.355 g, and fiber 6.67 g. Formula F2 contains 88.225 kcal of energy, 14.095 g of carbohydrates, 7.72 g of protein, 0.205 g of fat, 7.3 g of fiber, and 0.0015% flavonoids. Formula F3 has 107.015 kcal of energy, 7.995 g of protein, 0.295 g of fat, 6.88 g of fiber, and 0.0021% flavonoids. In conclusion, the best tempeh with added banana hearts is Formula F2, with its nutritional content, fiber, flavonoids, and BAL >10⁸ CFU/g, which has the potential to serve as a functional food and probiotic source to help improve digestive health in the elderly. Further testing is recommended directly on elderly groups, along with product shelf-life testing.

  Red dragon fruit contains bioactive compounds such as vitamin C, flavonoids, and polyphenols that have antioxidant potential and possess natural pigments that can be used as cosmetic colorants. This study aims to formulate and evaluate a blush-on powder preparation from dragon fruit pulp extract as an alternative natural colorant. The evaluation includes organoleptic testing, homogeneity, pH, irritation, spreadability, fineness, moisture content, and antioxidant activity. The results showed that the formulation met most of the requirements, exhibiting a pink color, a smooth texture, no odor, homogeneity, a pH of 6 suitable for the skin, no irritation, even spreadability within 4 applications, a fineness degree of 97.6%, and a moisture content of 6.91%. Antioxidant activity showed an IC₅₀ value of 0.3036 ppm (very strong), although the relative inhibition percentage was low (18.35%). Thus, dragon fruit extract has the potential as a natural ingredient in blush-on powder that provides both color and antioxidant benefits.

Sweet orange peel (Citrus x aurantium L.) is an agricultural by-product rich in bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, and vitamin C with antioxidant and moisturizing potential. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a body lotion using 15% ethanol extract of sweet orange peel obtained by maceration with 96% ethanol. Evaluations included organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, adhesion, spreadability, viscosity, irritation, cycling test, cream type, and DPPH antioxidant activity assessments. The preparation was semisolid, yellow, with a characteristic herbal aroma, homogeneous, pH 8, adhesion time of 4.10 seconds, spreadability of 9.9–11.1 cm, and acceptable viscosity. The preparation caused no skin irritation, remained stable through six cycling test cycles, and formed an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion. Antioxidant activity showed an IC₅₀ of 284.6 ppm (weak category) compared to vitamin C as positive control (IC₅₀ 4.2 ppm). It was concluded that ethanol extract of sweet orange peel can be formulated into a stable and safe body lotion, though further optimization is needed to enhance its antioxidant activity.

The prevalence of non-communicable degenerative diseases in Indonesia continues to rise, particularly affecting adolescents and productive age populations due to unhealthy lifestyle patterns and free radical exposure. Purple sweet potato leaves (Ipomoea batatas L.), a locally abundant resource often regarded merely as agricultural by-product, contain significant bioactive compounds including polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and terpenoids demonstrating potent antioxidant properties with IC50 values of 47.99 ppm. This study employs a qualitative descriptive literature review approach, analyzing 28 scientific publications spanning 2018-2025 sourced from Google Scholar and PubMed databases to examine the potential of purple sweet potato leaves as effervescent tablet raw material for degenerative disease prevention. Findings reveal that bioactive constituents effectively neutralize free radicals, prevent lipid peroxidation, and protect cellular structures from oxidative damage linked to diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. The effervescent tablet formulation provides strategic advantages including enhanced solubility, accelerated absorption rates due to elimination of disintegration processes, pleasant carbonation sensation masking unpleasant active ingredient taste, and superior gastrointestinal tolerance. This innovation offers promising prospects for degenerative disease prevention through local food resource utilization, though experimental validation regarding optimal formulation, effective dosage determination, and clinical efficacy assessment remains necessary for practical implementation.

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a disease that cannot be completely cured or cannot even be completely cured. The vile shard plant is empirically used by the community to treat diabetes (DM). This study aims to conduct phytochemical screening and test the activity of 96% ethanol extract of kejibeling leaves (Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Bl.) as a herbal antidiabetic in male white mice (Mus musculus) with alloxan induction. Method: This research is an experimental laboratory research with a true experimental posttest control design using a completely randomized design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 5 replications. Treatment P1 (without treatment) as normal control (N), P2 as positive control (+), P3 as negative control (-), P4 kejibeling leaf extract 250 mg/kg BW, P5 kejibeling leaf extract 500 mg/kg BW. Result:The results of phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids and steroids. SPSS results show that the data is normally distributed (p>0.05) and homogeneous (p>0.05). The results of the ANOVA on the treatment of giving keji beling leaf extract 250 mg/Kg BW showed a sig. 0.393 (p>0.05) and treatment of 500 mg/Kg BW obtained a sig value. 0.517 (p>0.05). Conclusion:The conclusion from the research results shows that administering doses of 250 mg/kg BW and 500 mg/kg BW of keji beling leaf extract can reduce blood sugar levels in mice. It is hoped that the results of this research will be useful for the community as an antidiabetic therapy using kejibeling leaves (Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Bl.).

The postpartum period is a crucial phase for mothers to recover after childbirth. One of the common problems is perineal wounds, caused either by episiotomy or spontaneous rupture, which require proper care to prevent infection and accelerate healing. This case study aimed to provide midwifery care for Mrs. M, 28 years old, P3A0H3, with a second-degree perineal wound at PMB Bd. Silvi Ayu, S.Keb. The SOAP approach was applied through assessment, diagnosis, intervention, implementation, and evaluation over five days (June 12–16, 2025). Interventions included education on perineal hygiene, encouragement of nutritious food intake, light mobilization, and perineal wound care using boiled binahong leaves. The results showed decreased pain, reduced edema, a dry wound, and complete healing on the fifth day, with the REEDA score decreasing from 11 to 0. The discussion emphasized that flavonoids, saponins, and ascorbic acid in binahong leaves contribute to tissue regeneration and faster healing. Limitations of this study included the short monitoring period, limited sample, and reliance on maternal compliance. In conclusion, binahong leaf decoction was found to be effective, practical, and able to enhance maternal independence in wound care. This study is expected to serve as a reference for midwifery practice and as a basis for further research with a wider scope.

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a medicinal plant traditionally used to control blood glucose levels and improve digestive health. These benefits are closely associated with its bioactive metabolite content. This article aims to characterize the bioactive metabolites of bitter melon and to review their potential bioactivity in glycemic control and digestive function. The method employed includes a literature-based characterization of metabolites, identification of major classes of active compounds, and evaluation of analytical techniques commonly applied in natural product research, such as phytochemical screening, chromatography, and spectroscopic analysis. The results indicate that bitter melon contains various bioactive metabolites, including flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, triterpenoids, and polyphenols, which contribute to blood glucose reduction by enhancing insulin sensitivity and inhibiting glucose absorption. Furthermore, these compounds support digestive health by improving digestive enzyme activity, exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects, and maintaining gut microbial balance. In conclusion, bitter melon represents a promising source of natural bioactive compounds with significant potential for application in health and pharmaceutical development.

Inflammation is a common condition that affects everyone and can affect quality of life. Candlenut leaves (Aleurites moluccanus) are known to contain flavonoid compounds, such as swertisin and 2''-O-rhamnosylswertisin, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory activity. This study aims to test the anti-inflammatory activity of candlenut leaves using four treatment groups, namely positive control (sodium diclofenac), negative control (Na-CMC), n-hexane fraction (200 mg/KgBW), and ethyl acetate fraction (200 mg/KgBW). Leg edema volume measurements were carried out periodically for up to 6 hours using a digital caliper. The results showed that the percentage of edema inhibition in the negative control group reached 64.13%, positive control 38.91%, n-hexane fraction 39.99%, and ethyl acetate fraction 39.82%. Although the ethyl acetate fraction showed better anti-inflammatory activity than the n-hexane fraction, its inhibition percentage was still lower than that of the positive control. These findings suggest that candlenut leaves have potential as a source of anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly the ethyl acetate fraction. Further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy and mechanism of action.

Sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) is one of the local fruit commodities with high potential as a source of functional natural ingredients. This study aims to identify the morphological characteristics and profile the phytochemical content of local Sumenep sugar apple fruit as a basis for the development of its bioactivity. Morphological observations were carried out in the Sumenep area, including fruit shape, size, stem circumference, leaf characteristics, and flower parts. Phytochemical analysis was conducted using qualitative tests for tannins and saponins, while tests for flavonoids and alkaloids are planned for the next stage. Observation results showed that local Sumenep sugar apple fruits have morphological variations in the form of ovoid, round, and oblong shapes, influenced by genetic factors and environmental conditions.  Phytochemical tests showed the presence of tannins, indicated by a color change to dark green when using FeCl₃ reagent, as well as the presence of saponins, demonstrated by the formation of stable foam during the shaking test. These findings reinforce the potential of local Sumenep soursop fruit as a candidate source of functional natural compounds, particularly in relation to antioxidant, antimicrobial activities, and other pharmacological benefits. Further studies are needed to analyze other phytochemical contents and evaluate bioactive activities more comprehensively.  

Leaves of Etlingera walang (Blume) RMSm have been empirically used in traditional medicine to relieve stomach disorders and are known to contain secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial properties. Salmonella typhi infection can cause typhoid fever with symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, while Candida tropicalis is a fungus that can infect the gastrointestinal tract and lead to digestive disturbances. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the ethanolic extract of E. walang leaves against S. typhi and C. tropicalis. The antimicrobial assay was carried out using the disk diffusion method at extract concentrations of 25%, 50%, and 100%, with chloramphenicol and ketoconazole as positive controls, and DMSO as the negative control. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. However, the results showed that the extract did not produce inhibition zones against either test microorganism. Extract evaluation indicated a moisture content of 12.23%, total ash 13.39% (above the standard), acid-insoluble ash 1.25%, total plate count 1.8 × 10 ⁴ , and mold and yeast count 1.0 × 10 ³. The findings suggest that although the ethanolic extract of E. walang leaves contains secondary metabolites and is traditionally used for stomach ailments, it does not exhibit antimicrobial activity against S. typhi or C. tropicalis.

Citrus hystrix DC., commonly known as kaffir lime, is a citrus plant widely distributed in Southeast Asia including Indonesia, Thailand, India, and China. Its leaves are traditionally used as food flavoring and herbal medicine due to their distinctive aroma and therapeutic potential. This study was conducted to identify the presence of secondary metabolite compounds in kaffir lime leaves through qualitative phytochemical screening. Fresh leaves were extracted and tested using standard phytochemical methods with specific reagents to detect alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, saponins, steroids, and terpenoids. The screening process was carried out through colorimetric reactions that indicate the presence of specific metabolite groups. The results showed that kaffir lime leaves positively contain several classes of secondary metabolites, including alkaloids (brownish-black precipitate with Bouchardat reagent), flavonoids (red color with Mg and concentrated HCl), saponins (stable foam formation after shaking with HCl), steroids (green color with acetic anhydride), terpenoids (reddish-purple color with concentrated H2SO4), and tannins (greenish-black color with FeCl3). The findings confirm that kaffir lime leaves are rich in bioactive compounds that may contribute to pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and therapeutic properties. These results support the traditional use of kaffir lime leaves as natural medicine and highlight their potential as a source of natural bioactive compounds for further pharmaceutical and nutraceutical development. This study provides preliminary scientific evidence and encourages more detailed quantitative and isolation studies on the active components of Citrus hystrix.

Fungal infections are a common health problem in tropical regions, including Indonesia, since humid conditions support microbial growth. Candida tropicalis is a pathogenic species frequently identified as the cause of both superficial and systemic candidiasis. The rising resistance to synthetic antifungal agents such as fluconazole and ketoconazole highlights the need for safer and more effective alternative therapies. Propolis, a resinous substance produced by Trigona sp. bees from various plant sources, contains flavonoids, phenolics, and terpenoids with important biological activities, including antimicrobial and antifungal effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ethanol extract of propolis from Balikpapan against the growth of Candida tropicalis using the disk diffusion method. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, and terpenoids in the extract. Antifungal activity testing showed that concentrations of 80%, 90%, and 100% significantly inhibited fungal growth, with the largest inhibition zone of 27.93 mm observed at 100% concentration. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed significant differences among treatments. Thus, ethanol extract of Trigona sp. propolis from Balikpapan demonstrates strong potential as a natural antifungal agent. These findings support the use of propolis as a natural-based therapeutic alternative for fungal infections and contribute to the development of herbal pharmaceutical products.

Burn injuries are a significant health problem because they damage the skin’s protective barrier, increase the risk of infection, and may cause severe complications if not treated properly. The healing process is complex and involves several cellular events, in which fibroblasts play a key role by producing collagen and forming granulation tissue. Recently, there has been growing interest in natural, herbal-based therapies for wound care. Tamarind leaves (Tamarindus indica) were chosen in this study because they contain flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, and saponins, all of which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tissue-regenerating properties. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of ethanol extract gel of tamarind leaves at concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, and 10% in promoting fibroblast proliferation and healing of burn wounds in male rats (Rattus norvegicus). An experimental randomized design was used with six groups: normal control, neative control, positive control, and three treatment groups. Clinical observation and histopathological analysis showed that the extract gel accelerated wound closure significantly compared to the negative control. Fibroblast proliferation was higher in all treatment groups, with the 10% extract giving the best result, similar to Bioplacenton. These findings highlight tamarind leaves’ potential as a safe and affordable alternative for burn wound therapy.

The agricultural sector plays a strategic role in ensuring national food security, particularly in rural areas where the majority of the population depends on agricultural production. Sememu Village, an agricultural-based community with rice and tobacco as its primary commodities, has faced recurring pest attacks in recent years. Conventional pest control methods in the area have primarily relied on chemical pesticides. However, excessive and prolonged use of these chemicals has resulted in serious problems, including pest resistance, environmental contamination, and potential health risks to farmers and consumers. This study aims to improve farmers’ knowledge and practical skills by introducing an alternative, eco-friendly approach through a training program on the production of botanical pesticides derived from papaya leaves (Carica papaya L.). Papaya leaves are known to contain bioactive compounds such as papain, chymopapain, alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, which exhibit natural insecticidal properties. The training activities consisted of initial observation, presentation of scientific and practical materials, hands-on practice in the preparation of botanical pesticides, and field testing on rice and tobacco plants. The findings demonstrated that the use of papaya leaf-based pesticides effectively reduced pest feeding activity and increased pest mortality rates, thereby minimizing crop damage. Importantly, this approach did not cause harmful effects on the surrounding ecosystem. The program highlights the potential of botanical pesticides as a sustainable solution for integrated pest management in agricultural villages, contributing both to environmental conservation and farmers’ welfare.

Various recent studies have shown that natural active compounds contained in traditional and fermented plants play a crucial role in supporting human health. These compounds include flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, organic acids, probiotics, and other phenolic compounds. Detection of these compounds is usually carried out through specific chemical reactions that allow researchers to more precisely identify the bioactive components. Their biological activities are diverse, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which work to protect the body from cell damage and infection. Natural compounds are considered promising agents for disease prevention and health promotion due to their broad biological activities. The fermentation process has been shown to increase the content of bioactive compounds while lowering the pH of the medium, creating conditions unfavorable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, probiotics that develop during fermentation play a role in maintaining the balance of the gut microbiota, strengthening the immune system, and improving digestive health. Fermented products are widely recognized as functional foods because they contain beneficial probiotics and enhanced bioactive compounds. These naturally derived products, rich in secondary metabolites, have also been shown to have significant physiological effects, such as lowering cholesterol levels, controlling blood sugar, and maintaining stable blood pressure. This makes natural ingredients and fermented products not only sources of nutrition but also have great potential for development as functional foods and traditional herbal medicines. This highlights the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches in developing functional foods and herbal medicines. Therefore, research on natural bioactive compounds and the role of fermentation in enhancing their effectiveness is highly relevant to supporting sustainable public health.  

Pine soda is a natural fermented liquid from pine needles (Pinus merkusii) which has a distinctive aroma and contains bioactive compounds with potential as antimicrobial agents. This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of pine soda against Staphylococcus aureus using the disc diffusion method and to compare its effectiveness with the antibiotic ampicillin as a positive control. The process of making pine soda is carried out through simple fermentation of Pinus merkusii pine needles under certain conditions to produce a fragrant liquid. Furthermore, qualitative tests are carried out to identify the content of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenols, and essential oils, which are known to have antibacterial properties. In the antibacterial activity test, paper discs that have been soaked in pine soda solutions with graded concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) are placed on agar media that have been inoculated with S. aureus. The results of the observation showed the presence of inhibition zones in each treatment with varying sizes. The largest inhibition zone was obtained at a concentration of 10% with a diameter of 10 mm, which is included in the medium inhibition category. As a comparison, ampicillin produced an inhibition zone of 26.3 mm, while distilled water, the negative control, showed no inhibition zone. These findings indicate that the antibacterial activity of pine soda is influenced by its bioactive compound content, although its effectiveness is still lower than that of standard antibiotics. This potential opens up opportunities for developing pine soda as a safe natural antibacterial agent, whether in the form of health products such as antiseptics, natural cleaners, or functional beverages that support body health. Further research is needed to optimize the fermentation process, increase the concentration of active compounds, and test its effectiveness against various types of pathogenic bacteria.

Indonesia is recognized as one of the world’s richest countries in terms of biodiversity, including a wide variety of traditional medicinal plants. One of the lesser-known yet promising local species is matoa (Pometia pinnata J.R. Forst & G. Forst), whose leaves have been traditionally used by local communities to treat various ailments, including diarrhea and seizures. This study aims to investigate the pharmacological effects of matoa leaf extract, with a particular focus on its anticonvulsant activity, while also reviewing its potential chemical constituents as a basis for herbal medicine development. The research was conducted using a combination of literature review and experimental testing on mice (Mus musculus) induced with strychnine to trigger seizures. Key observed parameters included seizure onset time and survival duration (dead time) following the administration of either synthetic drugs or matoa leaf extract. The results demonstrated that the matoa leaf extract exhibited significant anticonvulsant effects, as indicated by prolonged seizure onset and increased survival time in test animals. These pharmacological effects are presumed to be related to the presence of active compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, which may contribute to the stabilization of the central nervous system. Compared to conventional synthetic anticonvulsants, matoa leaf extract may offer a safer, plant-based alternative with potentially fewer side effects. The findings of this study provide valuable scientific evidence supporting the potential of Pometia pinnata leaves in the development of Indonesian herbal phytopharmaceuticals. Furthermore, they highlight the importance of further research, including preclinical and clinical trials, to validate efficacy, determine optimal dosages, and ensure safety for human use.

Pedada leaves (Sonneratia caseolaris), a type of mangrove plant that grows in tropical and subtropical coastal areas, have high ecological and pharmacological value. In addition to functioning as coastal protection from abrasion and seawater intrusion, this plant is also known to contain various secondary metabolite compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These compounds have been widely reported to have important biological activities, one of which is as an antimicrobial agent. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of pedada leaf ethanol extract in inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, especially bacteria that cause infections. The extraction process was carried out using 96% ethanol solvent through the maceration method, namely soaking the material in the solvent for a certain time to optimally obtain active compounds. The obtained extract was then tested for its antimicrobial activity using the disc diffusion method against test bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative. The inhibition zone formed around the disc was measured as an indicator of the antibacterial effectiveness of the extract. The results showed that pedada leaf extract was able to produce inhibition zones with varying diameters depending on the concentration used. The higher the extract concentration, the larger the diameter of the inhibition zone formed. This indicates a positive relationship between extract concentration and its antibacterial strength. This activity is believed to originate from the ability of compounds such as flavonoids and tannins to damage bacterial cell walls or disrupt microbial metabolic processes. This study provides initial evidence that pedada leaves have potential as an environmentally friendly and sustainable source of natural antibacterials. This potential is highly relevant in efforts to develop alternative antibacterial materials based on local plants, especially amidst increasing bacterial resistance to synthetic antibiotics.

Infused water is a functional beverage made by soaking slices of fruits, vegetables, and herbs in mineral water to produce a natural flavor and enhance nutritional content. In recent years, infused water has become part of a healthy lifestyle trend due to its claimed benefits, including detoxification, improved hydration, and immune system enhancement. This article aims to review the latest scientific literature on the potential benefits of infused water on immune function, particularly in the context of regular consumption of natural ingredients such as lemon, ginger, strawberries, and herbs that are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids. The review was conducted by searching scientific databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, using inclusion criteria that covered publications from 2020 to 2024. The findings indicate that infused water containing vitamin C, gingerol, and polyphenolic compounds can help improve immune function by reducing oxidative stress, suppressing inflammatory responses, and stimulating immune cell activity such as lymphocytes and macrophages. Furthermore, optimal hydration from infused water supports various physiological processes of the immune system. In conclusion, infused water holds potential as a simple, natural, and cost-effective strategy to support immune health. However, further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy, optimal formulations, and dosage for maximum benefit.

This study aims to determine the phytochemical content of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae extract, also known as Hermitia illucens. The maceration method with 96% ethanol solvent was used for extraction, followed by evaporation using a rotation evaporator. Qualitative phytochemical tests were carried out to identify compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, polyphenols, steroids, and triterpenoids. The results showed that BSF maggot extract contained alkaloid and flavonoid compounds that were positively detected, while other compounds were not detected by the method used. The alkaloid and flavonoid content has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These results indicate that BSF larvae can function as a source of natural biopharmaceutical active ingredients. However, the type of solvent used and the process conditions used affect the success of the extraction.