Technology Generators

Herbanext Laboratories, Inc.
University of the Philippines Diliman

The Problem

Inflammation is the body’s natural response against stress and infection. Prolonged inflammation, however, may lead to pain and tissue damage. Related literature suggests that prolonged inflammation may be caused by poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle. Common inflammatory diseases include asthma, diabetes, heart diseases, and  arthritis among others. 

Taking herbal supplements with anti-inflammatory benefits may help in preventing the onset or in reducing the effects of prolonged inflammation. The market is, however, already saturated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory supplements but most are not standardized and are not backed by scientific research. This may raise concerns in terms of the efficacy and safety of these products.

The Solution

Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as serpentina, sinta, or King of Bitters, is a medicinal herb commonly growing among the tropical countries in Asia. It is traditionally used as treatment for inflammation, upper respiratory tract infection, diabetes, hypertension, flu, diarrhea, and liver problems. Extracts from this plant have been documented to exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. 

Herbanext Laboratories, Inc. and the University of the Philippines Diliman teamed up in a research project funded under the TUKLAS LUNAS™ Program of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) to formulate a standardized herbal supplement from serpentina extracts. The formulation is standardized against Andrographolide, a diterpenoid that is responsible for serpentina’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Results of in vitro cytotoxicity studies on liver cancer and normal kidney cell lines have shown that the standardized serpentina formulation is non-toxic. In addition, results of COX-2 activation assays have shown a decrease in the level of COX-2 transcription.

Aside from its anti-inflammatory properties, the serpentina formulation may also help support healthy cardiovascular functions, boost the immune system, lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, and relieve pain, fever, and sore throat.

Product Development Stage

The serpentina capsules are at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8. The product is packaged in capsule form and is ready for commercial use. An IP application for the product is already registered at IPOPHL. The technology owners, led by Herbanext, are actively searching for potential licensees that will market and distribute the product.

Contact Person

Paul Felipe S. Cruz
CEO, Herbanext Laboratories, Inc.
Tel. nos.: +63 (34) 732-8106
Website: http://www.herbanext.com/