PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF TERUNG ASAM, INDIGENOUS FRUIT-VEGETABLES OF SARAWAK - A REVIEW

Abstract

Terung Asam Sarawak or Terung Dayak (Solanum lasiocarpum Dunal, previously known as Solanum ferox Linn) is an indigenous fruit-vegetable of Sarawak. It is commonly cultivated on Borneo Island, mainly in Sarawak, Malaysia, and Kalimantan, Indonesia. Its fruit is often an ingredient in traditional curry and is used as a paste for conventional hot sauce. The scarcity of research on Terung Asam Sarawak means there is a lack of scientific data, particularly on its phytochemical content, biological activity and preference for agronomic traits. This review covers recent and relevant studies about the extraction of bioactive compounds, phytochemicals, and potential biological activities from S. lasiocarpum Dunal. This review highlights the traditional use of S. lasiocarpum Dunal as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of several ailments in several countries, the factors influencing the extraction of bioactive compounds (time required for extraction, temperature, solvent type, and composition on phenolic compounds), phytochemical profile, the scientific evidence of their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticariogenic activities. Advanced knowledge on S. lasiocarpum Dunal will support exploration into its pharmacological and food uses and hopefully offer commercialization prospects.