Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and compounds promoting SIRT1 expression from Curcuma xanthorrhiza

•Nine compounds were isolated for the first time from C. xanthorrhiza.•A new Guaiane-type sesquiterpene Zedoaraldehyde was identified.•Compounds 1, 3, 4, 7 showed good AChE inhibitory activity.•Compounds 1, 3, 4 could promote SIRT1 expression in HEK293 cells.•Potential of C. xanthorrhiza sesquiterpenoids against AD was indicated.