Clinical effects of Zingiber cassumunar (Plai): A systematic review

Chongmelaxme et al., 2017 | Complement Ther Med | Systematic Review

Citation

Chongmelaxme Bunchai, Sruamsiri Rosarin, ... Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn. Clinical effects of Zingiber cassumunar (Plai): A systematic review. Complement Ther Med. 2017-Dec;35:70-77. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2017.09.009

Abstract

Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. known locally as "Plai" in Thai, has been used for treating bruise, sprain and musculoskeletal pain. Several pre-clinical studies demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effect of Plai. However, current evidence of clinical effects of Plai is still unclear. This study aimed to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of Plai among all identified indications. Of the 808 articles identified by a systematic review, six studies were included. Four studies were randomized controlled trials, while two studies were quasi-experimental studies involving 178 patients in intervention group and 177 patients in control group. Duration of treatment ranged from 7days to 2 months. Our findings showed that 14% Plai cream had a strong trend of benefits in pain reduction for muscle pain and ankle sprain. However, evidence supporting the effects of Plai on acne vulgaris treatment and anti-histamine effect are still unclear.

Key Findings

However, evidence supporting the effects of Plai on acne vulgaris treatment and anti-histamine effect are still unclear.

Outcomes Measured

• inflammatory markers

Population

MeSH Terms

• Analgesics
• Ankle
• Anti-Inflammatory Agents
• Humans
• Musculoskeletal Pain
• Ointments
• Phytotherapy
• Plant Extracts
• Sprains and Strains
• Thailand
• Zingiberaceae

Evidence Classification

• Level: Systematic Review
• Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
• Vertical: ginger

Provenance

• PMID: 29154071
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.09.009
• PMCID: Not in PMC
• Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09