BRIN investigates raru wood as a locally-based herbal antidiabetic remedy
Jakarta — The Centre for Applied Botanical Research, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is conducting research into raru wood (Vatica perakensis), which has long been used by Batak communities as an additive to traditional beverages (tuak) and is believed to help reduce blood sugar levels.
Gunawan Trisandi Pasaribu, a researcher at BRIN’s Centre for Applied Botanical Research, explained that raru wood extract possesses antioxidant properties and has potential to inhibit the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which plays a role in breaking down carbohydrates into glucose.
“To improve its effectiveness, we combined the raru wood bark extract with activated carbon derived from mocaf (modified cassava flour) which functions as a carrier of active compounds,” he said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.
He explained that the activated carbon is produced through a specialised heating process that creates a highly porous structure. This structure is expected to effectively transport and release the active compounds from the raru extract within the body.
The results showed that raru extract alone was able to reduce blood sugar levels by 21.94 per cent. The combination of raru extract and mocaf-based activated carbon demonstrated a reduction of 18.85 per cent at a 75:25 ratio and 14.97 per cent at a 50:50 ratio.
Previous research also demonstrated that raru extract was able to inhibit alpha-glucosidase enzyme activity in vitro by more than 90 per cent. This activity is believed to be related to the phenolic compounds contained within it.
“Pharmacokinetic analysis, detailed mechanisms of action, and safety aspects of use still require further investigation before moving to the stage of human clinical trials,” he said.
He emphasised that this research represents an important initial step in elevating local wisdom as a source of science-based herbal medicine innovation.
“Going forward, the research team will conduct phytochemical analysis to identify active compounds, optimise the active compound delivery system, and deepen investigations into the mechanism of action and safety aspects,” Gunawan Trisandi Pasaribu stated.