The ‘Tuklas Lunas’ program of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) remains in full swing as one of its projects is set for completion soon.
[This is a] randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Cavite that aims to determine the efficacy and safety of an herbal capsule [that may be] taken orally by adults with dengue fever.
Each fixed-dose capsule combines the ability of tawa-tawa (Euphorbia hirta) and banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) to increase platelet count with the immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of luya (Zingiber officinale).
Once proven safe and effective, the herbal capsule will be the first definitive treatment for dengue. It could pave the way for use in cases showing warning signs and even in severe types.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection whose incidence has been steadily increasing in tropical countries, particularly in the Philippines where it is considered as one of the top health problems.
The clinical trial, which costs nearly P12 million and is being implemented by Pharmalytics Corporation, is funded by the DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD).
On the economic side, farmers can benefit from cultivating any of the three medicinal plants, the increased demand for which may come from local pharmaceutical companies that could manufacture the treatment for domestic and even overseas markets.
Interested parties may contact Dr. Josefino Alvero, president of Pharmalytics Corporation, through email at jralvero@yahoo.com.
The Tuklas Lunas program trial on the herbal anti-dengue capsule is one of the technologies and innovations that will be presented at the “Big 21 in 2021” launch on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 10:00 a.m., to be broadcast live on PTV and livestreamed on the DOST-Philippines and PTV Facebook pages.
