Technology Generator

National Integrated Research Program on Medicinal Plants (NIRPROMP)
Institute of Herbal Medicine National Institute of Health,
University of the Philippines-Manila
Project Leader: Dr. Nelia P. Cortes-Maramba

The Problem

Fungal skin infection or dermatophytoses is one of the most common skin conditions in tropical countries like the Philippines. It is mostly contagious and can easily spread from one person to another person, from touching someone who has the infection or touching the surface where the fungus is present. Antifungal medicines are relatively expensive for the 2-6-week treatment period, depending on the extent of the lesions.

The Solution

Senna alata or commonly known as Akapulco is a woody bush that grows wild in the tropical climate of the Philippines and an affordable locally sourced herbal medicine. Its leaves have been traditionally used to treat fungal skin infections such as ringworms, scabies, and eczema. It also contains chrysophanic acid, one of the active components of the Akapulco lotion and crude anthraquinones such as rhein and aloe-emodine which have demonstrated antifungal activity against dermatophytes and superficial yeast infections. Results of several clinical trials prove that it is as effective as synthetic antifungal agents in the treatment of superficial skin infections.

Product Development Stage

Utility model patent of Akapulco lotion (antifungal) has been granted. The proponents are currently seeking for pharmaceutical companies who will produce, manufacture and distribute the product in the Philippine market.

Contact Person

Cecilia C. Maramba-Lazarte, MD, MScID, MScCT
Director, Institute of Herbal Medicine
National Institutes of Health, UP Manila
ccm.lazarte@gmail.com