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

Severe abdominal pain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and gastroenteritis (diarrhea) are some of the most common complaints which lead to discomfort and make it difficult for the people to function well in their jobs, and some even need to be brought to the emergency room or be hospitalized. Gallstones may also cause severe abdominal pain when the stone travels along the inflamed biliary tract. In the Philippines, gastroenteritis and diarrhea are one of the leading causes of morbidity. Also, about 10% of Filipinos endure the effects of irritable bowel syndrome, while approximately 5 Million Filipinos suffer from gallstones.

The Solution

Carmona retusa (Vahl) Masamune, also known as Tsaang Gubat, is an affordable, herbal medicine to help relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea in adults. It contains alpha-amyrin, beta-amyrin, and baurenol which have shown analgesic activity, anti-diarrheal and anti-spasmodic activity. Tsaang Gubat tablet has been clinically proven to be effective and safe in relieving the pain from gastrointestinal colic and biliary colic. A single dose of this tablet relieves pain from these conditions within 30 min to 1.5 hours.

Product Development Stage

Utility model patent has been granted for Tsaang Gubat tablet. 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