Recently, researchers at IPB University discovered the potential of the kangkang katup plant (Phanera semibifida) as an antidiabetic and antioxidant. The research was included in the “117 Indonesian Innovations” list released by the Business Innovation Center (BIC) in 2025.
The research team involved in this innovation includes Meyla Suhendra, Dr Berry Juliandi, Prof Huda Darusman, Dr Siti Sa’diah, and Prof Fitmawati.
The kangkang katup plant is not yet widely cultivated. However, communities in the Lingga Islands have long used it as the main ingredient in a bitter herbal drink believed to promote health, including providing anti-aging effects and longevity.
Dr Berry Juliandi explained that this innovation utilizes kangkang katup stem extract, which contains polyphenol compounds. These compounds function to inhibit the α-glucosidase enzyme, thereby lowering blood glucose levels (antihyperglycemic) while also acting as antioxidants, particularly for those with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
“Based on in vitro and in vivo analyses, the kangkang katup stem extract has been proven effective in lowering blood glucose levels and is safe in acute toxicity tests,” he said.
According to him, this innovation has the potential to be developed into a standardized herbal medicine based on local natural resources for antihyperglycemic therapy. Additionally, the extract also holds promise for use as a natural antioxidant to prevent oxidative stress in people with diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) itself is a degenerative disease with a steadily rising number of cases globally. By 2024, approximately 589 million people worldwide were living with diabetes. Indonesia ranks among the top five countries with the highest number of cases, reaching 20,4 million people.
Until now, diabetes therapy has generally relied on chemical drugs that can potentially cause side effects as usage increases. This situation has driven the development of effective, herbal-based treatment alternatives with minimal side effects, such as those offered through this valve shell innovation. (dh) (IAAS/LAN)
