Health-promoting and medicinal properties of Zingiberaceae family plants: A minireview with a special focus on galangal, turmeric, cardamom, and ginger

The Zingiberaceae family, including among others, galangal (Alpinia galanga), turmeric (Curcuma longa), cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), and ginger (Zingiber officinale), has been widely used in traditional medicine and culinary practices worldwide due to its diverse health-promoting properties. This mini-review aims to provide a concise overview of Zingiberaceae species’ medicinal potential and identify key areas for further research to facilitate their integration into modern medicine. Herein we summarize the existing research on the pharmacological activities of these species, with a focus on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, cardiovascular, digestive, and metabolic effects. Aside from the reported biological effects of traditional formulations and phytopharmaceutical preparations, emphasis is given to the primary bioactive compounds identified in these plants including diverse phenolics, terpenes, and various other secondary metabolites. Mechanisms contributing to therapeutic benefits. Moreover, highlighted is the promise of these plants for future development of drugs and nutraceuticals despite current challenges, particularly bioavailability issues and the need for more clinical studies.