Zingiber mioga: a perspective of its botany, uses, chemical constituents and health benefits

Abstract

In this review, the botany, uses, bioactive metabolites and health benefits of Zingiber mioga or myoga (Zingiberaceae), a popular edible ginger in Japan, Korea and China, are highlighted. Myoga is endemic to Japan, occurring naturally in Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. Available during summer, Z. mioga flower buds (ZMB) are consumed fresh or pickled. Major production areas in Japan are Gumma and Kanto, where Z. mioga is widely planted in home gardens. The plant is deeply enshrined in Japanese culture and tradition with annual festivals held to celebrate its mythology and folklore. Major pungent principles are labdane-type diterpene aldehydes identified as galanal A, galanal B, miogadial, miogatrial and mioganal. Health benefits of ZMB include anti-inflammation, anti-obesity, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, memory improvement and skin nourishment. Bioactive compounds from ZMB display antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, human platelet aggregation, 5-lipoxygenase inhibitory, and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 inhibitory activities. Bioactive compounds from the rhizomes have antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. Studies on allergic dermatitis due to regular contact with Z. mioga have been conducted. Some areas for future research on Z. mioga are suggested. Sources of information referred were from Google Scholar, PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, J-Stage and PubChem.