A recent series of studies led by INTI International University, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia and other research institutions have highlighted the antidiabetic potential of Garcinia atroviridis, a tropical fruit known as asam gelugur in Malaysia. These findings reveal that asam gelugur may be valuable for managing type 2 diabetes, offering new insights into its potential health benefits.
Garcinia atroviridis, commonly known as asam gelugur or asam keping, is a key ingredient in Malaysian cuisine and now shows promise in diabetes management.
Asam gelugur, or asam keping, is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine. Its distinctive flavour enhances Malaysian dishes like Assam Laksa and Lemak Cili Api. Research led by Dr. Douglas Sie Nguong Law from the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences at INTI International University has found that asam gelugur may help regulate blood sugar levels, a critical factor for people with type 2 diabetes. Dr. Douglas explained, “Our studies show that asam gelugur can inhibit enzymes that break down sugars, slowing the release of sugar into the blood. This could prevent blood sugar spikes after meals, which is vital in managing diabetes.”
Dr. Douglas Sie Nguong Law from INTI International University’s Faculty of Health and Life Sciences led a study on the antidiabetic potential of asam gelugur.
The research team tested the fruit extract through lab experiments, a chick embryo model, and computer-based analysis. They found that the extract slowed down sugar breakdown and encouraged muscle cells to absorb glucose, mimicking the effects of insulin. “It’s exciting to see asam gelugur helping cells absorb glucose, almost mimicking insulin,” Dr. Douglas said. “This suggests that the fruit could serve as a plant-based alternative to some of the effects of insulin.”
Insulin is a hormone that helps the body convert food into energy and manage blood sugar levels. When the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, it leads to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), resulting in diabetes. People with diabetes often rely on synthetic insulin injections to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
In Malaysia, the cost of synthetic insulin can range from RM30 to RM200 monthly, though government hospitals and clinics charge Malaysians just RM1. If asam gelugur can reduce the need for synthetic insulin, it could offer a more cost-effective solution. “Seeing asam gelugur work this way was a pleasant surprise,” Dr. Douglas added. “It shows promise not only as a natural preventive measure but also as a potential treatment to reduce reliance on synthetic drugs.”
Beyond its antidiabetic properties, asam gelugur has long been valued in traditional medicine. The fruit and its extracts contain antioxidants, which protect cells from damage, and may also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, aid digestion, and support weight management by suppressing appetite. These natural properties make asam gelugur an intriguing candidate for broader health applications beyond diabetes care.
The need for alternative diabetes treatments is growing rapidly. Type 2 diabetes, which makes up over 90% of all diabetes cases, affects more than 460 million people worldwide—a figure projected to reach 783 million by 2045. Diabetes is associated with high blood sugar and complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage. Current treatments often rely on synthetic drugs, which can be costly and come with side effects like weight gain and gastrointestinal issues.
According to the National Library of Medicine, Malaysia has one of the highest diabetes rates in the Western Pacific region and worldwide, costing the nation around 600 million US dollars annually. By 2025, diabetes is expected to impact 7 million Malaysian adults aged 18 and above, posing a significant national health risk.
“The global impact of diabetes is huge,” Dr. Douglas emphasised. “Most cases of diabetes are linked to lifestyle factors, and there’s an urgent need for affordable, accessible, and safer treatment options. Natural products like asam gelugur could be a breakthrough. If we can offer people a natural way to help manage blood sugar without harsh side effects, it could change diabetes care worldwide.”
While further studies and clinical trials are needed, this research marks a promising first step. With continued exploration, asam gelugur may soon play a dual role—as a beloved flavour in traditional dishes and a powerful tool in the fight against diabetes. Dr. Douglas Law and his team are hopeful that with more research, asam gelugur can contribute to a healthier future in diabetes care—one Malaysian dish at a time.