A recent study has revealed that a traditional Samoan medicinal plant, Psychotria insularum, known locally as ‘matalafi’, may be as effective as ibuprofen in treating inflammation. The research, led by indigenous Samoan scientist Dr. Seeseei Molimau-Samasoni from the Centre for Biodiscovery at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, combines traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods to explore the plant’s medicinal properties.
Matalafi, a small tree with white flowers and glossy red berries, has been used in Samoan traditional medicine to treat various forms of inflammation, including fever, body aches, wounds, and respiratory infections. The study, published in the journal PNAS, uncovered the molecular mechanism by which matalafi reduces inflammation, specifically through its interaction with iron in the body, a process known as iron chelation.
The researchers compared the effects of matalafi with those of ibuprofen and found that the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties are similarly potent. The study identified two key compounds in matalafi, rutin and nicotiflorin, which bind to iron within cells, contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.
“This discovery aligns with the diverse uses of matalafi in Samoan traditional medicine,” the researchers noted. Dr. Molimau-Samasoni emphasized the importance of scientifically validating traditional medicines, stating, “These are traditional medicines our people have been using for hundreds of years, and we are now finding science that supports their genuine activity.”
The team is currently investigating potential applications of matalafi beyond its traditional use, exploring its possible benefits in treating cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and diabetes. However, Dr. Molimau-Samasoni cautioned that further scientific investigation is necessary before matalafi can be widely administered.
