Researchers from the University of the Philippines Manila College of Pharmacy have developed an herbal tablet to help manage diabetes. Led by Assistant Professor Raymond Fernando Yu, the team aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to expensive synthetic medications, benefiting millions of Filipinos dealing with this chronic disease.
Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in the Philippines, affecting around 4.4 million people. Yu highlights the country’s rich but underutilized natural resources, emphasizing their potential for medicinal use. “We have a gold mine of natural resources that remain untapped. By transforming these into accessible treatments, we can help millions,” he said.
How Tuklas Lunas Herbal Tablet Works
Named the Tuklas Lunas herbal antidiabetic tablet, the pill works by inhibiting the α-glucosidase enzyme, which slows down carbohydrate breakdown into glucose. This helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of complications such as kidney failure, heart disease, and nerve damage.
“Our study shows that plant extracts at 100 parts per million can inhibit α-glucosidase activity by 50%, preventing dangerous blood sugar spikes,” Yu explained. Designed to complement existing diabetes treatments, the tablet offers an effective yet affordable option.
Unlocking the Potential of Philippine Medicinal Plants
The tablet contains key plant-based compounds like cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins—phytochemicals known for their role in managing metabolic disorders. Extracted from Philippine medicinal plants, these compounds are gaining attention for their potential health benefits.
Since securing a utility model from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines in 2022, the researchers have been working toward commercializing the product. “The Philippines has an abundance of medicinal plants, and we’ve only begun exploring their potential. With proper support, we can bring this product to market and offer an affordable, effective solution for diabetes,” Yu said.
With continued research and development, this herbal treatment could become a widely accessible option for diabetes management in the country.
