In various corners of the Indonesian archipelago, the name malaka may not sound unfamiliar. This small greenish-yellow fruit, known in scientific literature as Phyllanthus emblica, has long been trusted by communities as a traditional medicine. Its sour and bitter taste often makes people grimace, but behind it lies extraordinary properties.

 

Now, a study led by a cross-university team has revived this ancient heritage with a modern approach. Their scientific article, titled Microwave-assisted extraction enhances the antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities of polyphenol-rich Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract, was published in the journal Discover Food in 2025. The article was written by Monica Suryani, Ana Yulyana, Khairani Fitri, Lokot Donna Lubis, Wardiyah Daulay, Chemayanti Surbakti, Ririn Astyka, Muhammad Fauzan Lubis.

 

Sumaiyah, a lecturer at Universitas Sumatera Utara, revealed that this research was not merely a laboratory experiment, but a mission to bridge local wisdom with modern scientific innovation. She recalled how, since childhood, she had known this fruit from family stories. Malaka was often used in traditional herbal drinks (jamu) to maintain endurance, although its sour taste often made children refuse to drink it. Now, she and her colleagues are striving to scientifically prove why this traditional concoction has been so trusted. According to her, this step is not merely research but a way to safeguard the bridge between culture and science.

 

The issue they raised is no small matter. Diabetes, particularly type 2, has become one of the most serious health threats in the modern world. The World Health Organization estimates that the number of sufferers could surpass 350 million people by 2030, an alarming figure. In Indonesia, its prevalence continues to increase along with fast-paced lifestyles, high-sugar foods, and minimal physical activity. Medications are indeed available, but many patients complain of long-term side effects. From here arose the idea of finding safer natural alternatives.

 

Malaka fruit emerged as a promising candidate. This plant is rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids—compounds known as natural antioxidants. Tradition has proven its benefits, but science must provide stronger evidence. The research team then chose an approach different from conventional methods. Instead of using boiling or maceration, which take a long time, they utilized microwaves in the extraction process. This technique is known as microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), which works by rapidly heating samples and solvents so that active compounds are more easily released.

 

The test results showed that the most optimal combination occurred with 70 percent ethanol solvent, microwave power of around 432 watts, and an extraction time of 13.5 minutes. From these conditions, extracts with much higher polyphenol and flavonoid levels were obtained compared to traditional methods. The numbers emerging from the laboratory were not mere statistics, but evidence that modern technology can elevate the value of simple natural materials.

 

It was not only the quantity of compounds that increased, but also their diversity. Further analysis discovered quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol—three names often described as little heroes in biomedicine. These compounds act as free radical scavengers, strengthen cellular defense systems, and even play a role in lowering blood sugar levels. Sumaiyah emphasized that this finding connects community beliefs with scientific evidence. “What was once only trusted through tradition, we can now explain scientifically,” she said.

 

However, the research did not stop in the chemistry laboratory. The team then proceeded to biological testing on diabetic-induced rats. For thirty days, the animals were given malaka extract at specific doses. The results surprised and delighted the researchers: fasting blood sugar levels dropped drastically, HbA1c levels as an indicator of long-term blood sugar also decreased, while antioxidant enzyme activity in the body increased. More than that, histological examinations showed improvements in pancreatic structure, as if the damaged organ was starting to recover.

 

This picture offers new hope. Malaka extract produced through MAE proved to have dual functions: combating free radicals and helping to control blood sugar. Even in enzyme tests, this extract was able to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase, two enzymes that trigger post-meal blood sugar spikes. This effect was nearly comparable to standard drugs such as acarbose, although derived from natural sources. For people seeking more body-friendly alternatives, this finding feels like an oasis.

 

The narrative of this research is also inseparable from cross-university collaboration. In addition to Universitas Sumatera Utara, there were researchers from Jakarta, Medan, and various other institutions involved. This collaboration illustrates how health issues require synergy, not merely individual effort. Behind test tubes and analytical charts are dedicated faces who spend long hours ensuring that every recorded number is truly valid.

 

Although the results are promising, the team realized that the journey is still long. Clinical trials in humans are the next step, which certainly require greater cost, time, and effort. However, another potential also emerges: developing this extract as functional food. Imagine if people could prevent diabetes through herbal drinks, supplements, or snacks made from malaka. This is not only about health, but also about local economic opportunities.

 

In her personal reflection, Sumaiyah often stated that this research is not only about data, but also about identity. Indonesia is rich in medicinal plants, yet research and development often lag behind. By combining local wisdom with modern technology, this nation is actually capable of producing breakthroughs recognized globally. What has been done with malaka fruit is only one small example of the vast potential still hidden.

 

The story of this often-overlooked small fruit teaches that great solutions can come from simple things. From ancestral tales in villages, malaka has now stepped into international journals, proving that science can affirm what has been handed down for generations. And behind this journey, there is a group of researchers striving to ensure that cultural heritage does not end on the shelf of traditional medicine, but continues to live in modern research.