Unraveling current breakthroughs in Scorodocarpus borneensis phytochemical therapeutics: A systematic review

Scorodocarpus borneensis, also known as the Kulim tree or Garlic tree, has been consumed by the local communities in Southeast Asia as traditional spice using its old leaves, stem bark, and seeds. The locals also used Kulim tree parts as conventional alternative to treat many diseases such as hemorrhoids, leprosy, diabetes, and diarrhea. However, there was limited scientific evidence to support these traditional claims. Therefore, this systematic review aims to present and evaluate a detailed overview of the phytochemical constituents of S. borneensis from previous existing studies, shedding light on their chemical composition, bioactivity, and potential applications. In addition, current studies regarding S. borneensis are still on a fundamental level. Hence, we aim that this review will reveal the research gap from the previous literature and provide an insight to implement a new research approach in the future. A literature search was conducted using four databases: ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. The articles were screened and data were extracted based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline. 8 studies satisfied the inclusion criteria that focused on the phytochemicals from S. borneensis. The major phytochemical compound reported was phenolic compound. S. borneensis also exhibits several therapeutic outcomes such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer but current studies are not enough to support the claims regarding S. borneensis health benefit. In conclusion, this review highlights the current understanding of S. borneensis’ phytochemical composition and its therapeutic applications which are important in preventing human diseases especially non-communicable diseases.