4.9. Antioxidant Activity
Fruits and vegetables are known to contain various forms of phytochemicals and antioxidants, particularly polyphenol compounds (e.g., flavonoids and anthocyanins). Their frequent consumption has been associated with a lowered risk of heart disease, cancer, hypertension, and stroke. RZZ, which is a widely used herb taken before meals especially in Fiji, is reported to be the richest source of kaempferol (240 mg/100 g) when compared to another species of Zingiberaceae (Z. officinale) [37]. Z. officinale contained only trace amount of kaempferol. Other than kaempferol, RZZ contained