The University of the Philippines Manila’s Institute of Herbal Medicine (IHM) has introduced “Tsaang Gubat” tablet and syrup. This product is a natural and affordable treatment for gastrointestinal and biliary colic.
Tsaang Gubat, known scientifically as Ehretia microphylla and commonly called Scorpion Bush, has been used in the Philippines to relieve diarrhea and spasms. The plant contains compounds, alpha- and beta-amyrin, which help relieve pain, reduce diarrhea, and ease spasms in the gastrointestinal system.
Dr. Jaime M. Purificacion, a researcher at IHM, stated that Tsaang Gubat offers a natural treatment option, especially for those in rural areas. It supports local herbal production and combines traditional knowledge with modern practices.
Clinical trials by the National Integrated Research Program on Medicinal Plants (NIRPROMP) indicate that Tsaang Gubat syrup is effective against mild to moderate gastrointestinal colic, especially in children aged two to 18 years. The trials showed that patients experienced symptom relief similar to that of dicycloverine syrup, within 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Tsaang Gubat tablets also provide pain relief for biliary colic caused by gallstones, with effects noticeable in 30 minutes and complete relief within about 2.5 hours. Additionally, Tsaang Gubat is more affordable than many synthetic treatments. Once available, the price will be around P30 per treatment, compared to P50 for dicycloverine.
The treatment has no major side effects, making it safe for all patients, including children. Patients generally like the Tsaang Gubat syrup for its sweet taste and ease of swallowing. There have been no adverse effects reported, making this a viable option for pediatric use.
UP Manila plans to promote Tsaang Gubat as a key herbal product in 2024. They invite pharmaceutical companies to license and manufacture this treatment.
The development of Tsaang Gubat involved contributions from several scientists, including Dr. Nelia P. Cortes-Maramba, Evangeline Amor, Dr. Clara Lim Sylianco, Dr. Horacio Estrada, Prof. Ernesta Quintana, Dr. Romeo Quijano, Dr. Natividad de Castroci, Dr. Cecilia Zamora, and Prof. Leticia Barbara Gutierrez.
