Xanthorrhizol is a bioactive compound extracted from the rhizome of Curcuma xanthorrhiza, commonly known as Java turmeric or temulawak. Its use in supporting the hepatic (liver) system is supported by a growing body of preclinical scientific research. Animal studies and in vitro experiments have indicated that xanthorrhizol possesses hepatoprotective properties. These effects are thought to arise from its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic actions. For example, xanthorrhizol has been shown to reduce markers of liver injury and oxidative stress in rodent models of chemically-induced liver damage (such as those using carbon tetrachloride or paracetamol). It has also demonstrated the ability to inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic markers in liver tissue.

Despite these promising findings, it is important to note that most evidence comes from animal models and laboratory studies, with a lack of large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials in humans. Traditional medicine in Southeast Asia has used Java turmeric preparations for liver complaints, which aligns with these modern findings, but the specific role of xanthorrhizol (as opposed to whole plant extracts) is less well-characterized in ethnomedicine. Thus, xanthorrhizol's use for liver support is partially validated by scientific research, but the clinical evidence remains preliminary, and further human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.