The Anting-anting Plant or Acalypha indica Linn. is not a foreign thing for cat lovers. This plant is often known as herb for cat relaxation. But, who would have thought that this shrub has the potential as an anti-cancer drug? Research conducted by Dr. Elok Kamilah Hayati, M.Si shows the presence of anti-cancer compounds in this plant.
“Anting-anting does indeed pharmacologically contain many active compounds. Our previous research identified the presence of groups of compounds such as alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids,” explained the woman born in 1979. She has also conducted various studies related to antioxidant activity tests. “This study aims to evaluate the metabolite profile of Acalypha indica based on differences in location altitude and type of extraction solvent, as well as to identify compounds that act as anticancer through a metabolomic approach,” she added.
The research process was also quite short. Elok needed 1.5 years in the laboratory to be able to complete her final assignment. The woman who is also a lecturer in Analytical Chemistry at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim conducted her research at UIN, UB and IPB. “This research is also a collaboration between UB and IPB, one of my supervisors is an IPB lecturer,” she explained.
The selection of the Anting-Anting plant as the object of her research was not without reason. This shrub is easy to find anywhere, although she had to compete with a number of cats around her house when taking this plant. In addition, she added, these plant are also often used by the community to lower uric acid levels in the blood. “Although it often used for treatment, this plant still has various other potentials such as antimalarials. This metabolomic study can also be said to quickly predict the characteristic compounds. So, other tests are still needed to get more complete results,” added this alumni of FMIPA UB.
From this research, Elok managed to achieve a GPA of 4 and became the best graduate of Universitas Brawijaya Doctoral Program. Elok and 497 other students will receive degrees as Associate Experts, Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor, Master and Doctor in the graduation procession period 16, on Sunday (9/2) at the Samanta Krida Building, Universitas Brawijaya. (VQ/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir)
