The Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center (TropBRC) LRI-PGK IPB University extends its congratulations to Prof. drh. Min Rahminiwati, M.S., Ph.D. on her inauguration as a Full Professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (SKHB), IPB University. On this occasion, she delivered a scientific oration titled “Herbal as Multitarget Agents: Scientific Perspectives in Managing Metabolic Disorders.” This theme stems from the rising prevalence of metabolic diseases, which have become a global health challenge affecting both humans and animals.
In her oration, Prof. Min explained that metabolic disorders such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperuricemia do not occur in isolation but are interconnected through mechanisms such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance. Due to this complexity, single-target therapies often yield suboptimal results, creating the need for multitarget approaches. Indonesian medicinal plants—including Orthosiphon aristatus (kumis kucing), Sonchus arvensis (tempuyung), ginger, sappan wood, and many others—have been scientifically shown to modulate various biochemical pathways simultaneously, from AMPK activation and NF-κB inhibition to organ protection through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Prof. Min emphasized that the multitarget herbal approach is not merely traditional heritage but is strongly supported by modern scientific evidence, including in vivo studies, in silico modeling, metabolite analysis, and network pharmacology. Systematic research has demonstrated that combinations of herbal ingredients can produce synergistic effects in controlling blood glucose, improving lipid profiles, reducing blood pressure, and protecting kidney function. These findings highlight Indonesia’s vast biodiversity as a promising source of future phytopharmaceuticals.
In closing, Prof. Min called upon all stakeholders to continue advancing evidence-based herbal research as a safe, effective, and sustainable health solution. By integrating local wisdom with modern science, Indonesia holds tremendous potential to contribute to global innovations in managing metabolic diseases. May this achievement inspire continued research, discovery, and elevation of Indonesia’s biological wealth for broader benefits in public health.
