Agarwood's Role in Inflammatory-related Conditions: A Systematic Review of Animal Models
10.31436/ imjm.v25i01.2976
- Author:
Hashim YZH-Y
1
;
Abbas P
2
;
Samsudin N
1
;
I.R Gill C
3
Author Information
1. International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART), International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2. International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART), International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Global Root Resources, 34-1821, Pinggiran Desa Mahkota, Desa Mahkota, Selangor, Malaysia
3. School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
agarwood;
Aquilaria;
anti-inflammation;
inflammatory;
oxidative;
animal model
- From:
The International Medical Journal Malaysia
2026;25(No. 1):16-29
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.) is a resinous wood traditionally used in various medicinal
systems across Asia for treating inflammation-related ailments. Despite its
longstanding ethnopharmacological use, scientific validation of its anti-inflammatory
effects remains fragmented. This scoping review aims to systematically evaluate and
synthesize current evidence from animal studies investigating the anti-inflammatory
potential of agarwood. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using
PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria focused on original animal
studies assessing the anti-inflammatory effects of agarwood extracts, essential oils,
or derivatives. Data on study design, animal models, agarwood species, treatment
dosage, duration, biomarkers, and outcomes were extracted and summarized
narratively due to methodological heterogeneity. Eight studies met inclusion criteria,
involving models of inflammation-related conditions such as pain, neuroinflammation,
gastrointestinal injury, cancer, and toxicity. Agarwood treatment consistently reduced
pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), modulated oxidative stress
markers (e.g., NO, SOD, GSH), and regulated signalling pathways including NF-κB,
p38 MAPK, and Nrf2–ARE. Notably, improvements were observed in behavioural
and histological outcomes across models, with evidence of dose-dependent effects
in several studies. In conclusion, preclinical evidence supports agarwood’s broadspectrum anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties across multiple organ
systems. These findings provide mechanistic insights and a scientific basis for its
traditional use. However, variability in species, extraction methods, and study designs
highlights the need for standardised protocols and clinical validation to advance
agarwood as a potential therapeutic agent.
- Full text:2026060310422511185RA+2976.pdf
