BACKGROUND

Scabies is a highly contagious neglected tropical disease and a persistent challenge globally, particularly in regions like the Philippines, where it remains endemic. With conventional treatments facing limitations such as resistance and adverse effects, exploring the potential of traditional medicinal plants offers a promising avenue for novel therapeutics. However, evidence of their comparative efficacy and safety is still lacking.

To determine the efficacy and safety of Gliricidia sepium (kakawati), Senna alata (akapulko), and Tinospora rumphii (makabuhay) compared to topical scabicides or placebo in the treatment of Filipino patients with scabies using a systematic review. 

We searched the following databases from inception to March 2024: MEDLINE via PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE, EBSCO, HERDIN, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO-ICRTP, and PHRR. We included all randomized controlled trials involving Filipino patients diagnosed with scabies where preparations containing one of three plants (G. sepium, S. alata, or T. rumphii) were compared with a topical scabicide or placebo for treatment. Two review authors independently applied eligibility criteria, assessed risk of bias (using Risk of Bias 2.0), and extracted data from the included studies. Primary outcomes were complete clearance of skin lesions, reduction of pruritus, and the presence of serious adverse events. Secondary outcomes were recurrence, any adverse events, adverse events requiring withdrawal, and patientreported outcomes. We used RevMan 5.4 to pool dichotomous outcomes using risk ratios and continuous outcomes using mean difference and applied random-effects meta-analysis. We tested for statistical heterogeneity using both the Chi2 test and the I2 statistic. We presented the results using forest plots with 95% confidence intervals. We intended to conduct a funnel plot analysis to check for reporting bias but were unable to because of the limited number of studies. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach, and a Summary of Findings table was created using GRADEpro GDT for the primary outcomes.

We included nine RCTs (N=607 participants) that compared various dosage forms (ointments, lotions, poultice, soap, aqueous extract) containing one of the three plants (G. sepium, three studies; S. alata, two studies; T. rumphii, four studies) versus placebo or existing topical scabicides (permethrin, sulfur, crotamiton). Pooled analyses showed that there is probably no difference in complete clearance of lesions between G. sepium and 5% sulfur (RR 0.92 [0.79, 1.07], 2 RCTs, N=85, moderate certainty of evidence). We are uncertain about the difference in complete clearance of lesions between S. alata lotion and placebo (RR 4.94 [1.67, 14.62], 2 RCTs, N=157, very low certainty of evidence), T. rumphii and crotamiton (RR 1.02 [0.76, 1.37], 2 RCTs, N=131, very low certainty of evidence), and T. rumphii lotion and placebo (RR 5.28 [0.76, 36.43], 2 RCTs, N=71, very low certainty of evidence). Data could not be pooled for reduction in pruritus scores due to limited studies for each intervention. No serious adverse events were reported across all studies.

Gliricidia sepium (kakawati) is probably as effective and safe as 5% sulfur in the management of patients with scabies and may be a promising alternative herbal treatment. Future RCTs should compare it with scabicides recommended by the Philippine Department of Health and World Health Organization, such as permethrin, benzyl benzoate or oral ivermectin. T. rumphii and S. alata may also be investigated using RCTs that should be adequately powered and with good methodologic quality.

BACKGROUND

The Philippines has a wide variety of plant species with potential to produce allergenic pollen grains. Most of the study subjects which are residents in Manila tested positive to Fabaceae and Amaranthaceae. Weeds, especially the Amaranthaceae and Fabaceae families, are relevant triggers of allergy as they are highly adaptive and can grow despite adverse weather conditions. However, only a few allergens have been identified among these families and listed in the International Union of Immunological Societies allergen nomenclature database. Currently, local pollen grains are being processed at the Medical Research Laboratory of our institution to produce crude pollen extracts for use in specific diagnostic skin tests and in subcutaneous immunotherapy of patients with respiratory allergies all over the country. However, these extracts have not been characterized and data of cross-reactivity is limited.

This study aimed to evaluate the IgE binding activity of allergen extracts from Philippine weeds and trees, and determine their cross-reactive components.

Pollen extracts from Amaranthus spinosus (pigweed), Mimosa pudica (makahiya), Tridax procumbens (wild daisy), Albizia saman (acacia), Leucaena leucocephala (ipil-ipil), Mangifera indica (mango), and Cocos nucifera (coconut) were extracted and analyzed for crossreactivity using ELISA and Western blot. 

Cross-reaction was observed between ipil-ipil and coconut, and between makahiya and wild daisy. IgE bound to protein components at ~20, 18, and 15 kDa of the weeds, while for the trees, IgE bound to protein components at ~35 and ~15 kDa which may be responsible for the cross-inhibitions observed.

Data may contribute to the development of immunotherapeutic strategies and diagnostic applications for respiratory allergies, comprising the production of standardized panel of allergens thus eliminating unwanted side effects and providing patients with safer diagnosis and therapy.

BACKGROUND

Espada plant, local name for the snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) in the Philippines, is characterized by its upright sword-like leaves with vibrant yellow edges under the variety of Laurentii in the Asparagaceae family. This plant has been identified as a viable candidate for cancer research.

To investigate the antiproliferative and cytotoxic capabilities of a semi-purified methanolic extract of D. trifasciata extracted as a basis for cancer research.

The plant extracts were subjected to (1) qualitative phytochemical analysis, (2) instrumentation analysis which includes Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) and Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), to quantify bioactive ingredients, analyze structures, and evaluate biological chemicals, respectively, and tested to (3) biological assay on the HCT 116 human colorectal cancer cell line using the MTT Cytotoxic Assay.

D. trifasciata extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, sterols, triterpenes, alkaloids, and glycosides, all of which contain an OH group and have a high solubility in polar solvents. It correlates to the results of TFC, found to be within 266.8333 mg – 622.6801 mg presented as ?g Quercetin per mL with a linear line of y=0.0005x + 0.023 with a coefficient R2 value of 0.9933. This finding corresponds to FTIR-ATR data, which shows a prominent broad appearance of -OH (primary and secondary alcohol) at peak 3327.21. In MTT Cytotoxic Assay, it has a minimal IC50 than Doxorubicin, as seen in Trial 2 with IC50 = 0.8012 ?g/mL, while antiproliferative activity revealed that D. trifasciata has minimal inhibitory activity in Trials 1 and 3 at the same concentration of 3.125 ?g/ mL as compared to the high antiproliferative property of positive control, as seen in Trial 2. Data showed that the D. trifasciata extract has minimal effectiveness even at 1.56 ?g/mL concentration, implying that other extraction techniques such as fractionation and purification may be used to satisfy its antiproliferative property.

The D. trifasciata extract contains polyalcohol, phenol, polyphenol, and polyhydroxylated metabolites, which are structures that correspond to the major groups of flavonoids (structures that have antioxidant properties), contributing to the high TFC values.

INTRODUCTION

Effective mosquito control is pivotal in the epidemiology of vector-borne diseases, but no successful preventive measures have been recorded for dengue vector control. Hence, possible alternatives to chemical larvicides have been explored, including plant alcoholic extracts. This study determined the larvicidal efficacy of Annona squamosa ethanolic leaf extracts against third instar larvae of Aedes aegypti.

Three replicates of varying concentrations of Annona squamosa ethanolic extract (i.e., 10%, 40%, and 70%) versus positive (Novaluron) and negative controls (tap water) were used to determine larval mortality.

Greatest larval mortality was noted using the 70% concentration (i.e., 24% versus the observed values of 20% and 8%, respectively for the 40% and 10% ethanolic concentrations). Relative to the controls, the mean differences in the mortality rates of the Aedes aegypti larvae across the leaf ethanolic concentrations were statistically significant (i.e., p-value < 0.05). There was increasing trend in larval mortality over time, but 50% lethal dose was not achieved. In conclusion, the different Annona squamosa ethanolic leaf extracts could be used as alternative botanical larvicides against Aedes species.

BACKGROUND

Scabies is a highly contagious neglected tropical disease and a persistent challenge globally, particularly in regions like the Philippines, where it remains endemic. With conventional treatments facing limitations such as resistance and adverse effects, exploring the potential of traditional medicinal plants offers a promising avenue for novel therapeutics. However, evidence of their comparative efficacy and safety is still lacking.

To determine the efficacy and safety of Gliricidia sepium (kakawati), Senna alata (akapulko), and Tinospora rumphii (makabuhay) compared to topical scabicides or placebo in the treatment of Filipino patients with scabies using a systematic review. 

We searched the following databases from inception to March 2024: MEDLINE via PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE, EBSCO, HERDIN, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO-ICRTP, and PHRR. We included all randomized controlled trials involving Filipino patients diagnosed with scabies where preparations containing one of three plants (G. sepium, S. alata, or T. rumphii) were compared with a topical scabicide or placebo for treatment. Two review authors independently applied eligibility criteria, assessed risk of bias (using Risk of Bias 2.0), and extracted data from the included studies. Primary outcomes were complete clearance of skin lesions, reduction of pruritus, and the presence of serious adverse events. Secondary outcomes were recurrence, any adverse events, adverse events requiring withdrawal, and patientreported outcomes. We used RevMan 5.4 to pool dichotomous outcomes using risk ratios and continuous outcomes using mean difference and applied random-effects meta-analysis. We tested for statistical heterogeneity using both the Chi2 test and the I2 statistic. We presented the results using forest plots with 95% confidence intervals. We intended to conduct a funnel plot analysis to check for reporting bias but were unable to because of the limited number of studies. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach, and a Summary of Findings table was created using GRADEpro GDT for the primary outcomes.

We included nine RCTs (N=607 participants) that compared various dosage forms (ointments, lotions, poultice, soap, aqueous extract) containing one of the three plants (G. sepium, three studies; S. alata, two studies; T. rumphii, four studies) versus placebo or existing topical scabicides (permethrin, sulfur, crotamiton). Pooled analyses showed that there is probably no difference in complete clearance of lesions between G. sepium and 5% sulfur (RR 0.92 [0.79, 1.07], 2 RCTs, N=85, moderate certainty of evidence). We are uncertain about the difference in complete clearance of lesions between S. alata lotion and placebo (RR 4.94 [1.67, 14.62], 2 RCTs, N=157, very low certainty of evidence), T. rumphii and crotamiton (RR 1.02 [0.76, 1.37], 2 RCTs, N=131, very low certainty of evidence), and T. rumphii lotion and placebo (RR 5.28 [0.76, 36.43], 2 RCTs, N=71, very low certainty of evidence). Data could not be pooled for reduction in pruritus scores due to limited studies for each intervention. No serious adverse events were reported across all studies.

Gliricidia sepium (kakawati) is probably as effective and safe as 5% sulfur in the management of patients with scabies and may be a promising alternative herbal treatment. Future RCTs should compare it with scabicides recommended by the Philippine Department of Health and World Health Organization, such as permethrin, benzyl benzoate or oral ivermectin. T. rumphii and S. alata may also be investigated using RCTs that should be adequately powered and with good methodologic quality.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, with developing countries such as the Philippines facing particularly severe impacts due to resource limitations. The most affected by AMR is Healthcare Acquired Infections (HAIs), including Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSIs). These are commonly associated with biofilm-forming bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis, which complicates treatment due to antibiotic resistance. The Philippine variety of Psidium guajava, a folklorically used medicinal plant, has shown potential antimicrobial properties that could offer a new avenue for combating resistant pathogens.

This study evaluated the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of crude Psidium guajava ethanolic leaf extracts (PGELE) against biofilm-forming S. epidermidis (ATCC 12228). PGELE was tested at five concentrations (ranging from 312.5 µg/mL to 10,000 µg/mL) using two-fold serial dilution to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) using agar dilution count method. For the Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC) and Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC), crude PGELE was tested at 0.25 x MIC, 0.5 x MIC, MIC, 2 x MIC and 4 x MIC.

The MIC for PGELE against S. epidermidis was determined to be 2500 µg/mL, and the MBC was 5000 µg/mL, indicating that PGELE exhibits bactericidal activity. In biofilm assays, PGELE demonstrated strong antibiofilm activity at concentrations as low as 625 µg/ mL, inhibiting biofilm formation by more than 50%. However, PGELE did not eradicate preformed biofilms, as indicated by the MBEC results at concentrations ranging from 625 µg/mL to 10,000 µg/mL.

Psidium guajava ethanolic leaf extracts exhibit antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against S. epidermidis, particularly in preventing biofilm formation. These findings suggest that PGELE could be developed as an effective natural antimicrobial agent for use in healthcare settings to prevent CRBSIs and other infections caused by biofilm-forming pathogens. Further research and development are warranted to explore the potential of PGELE for antimicrobial drug development.

The thought of medicine and food homology and substances with both edible and medicinal values are an important part of China's excellent traditional culture and medicine treasure, playing an important role in human diet and health maintenance for thousands of years. Substances with both edible and medicinal values are a standardized name governed by existing regulations, and many substances with both edible and medicinal values in the list lack important information such as original plants and edible and medicinal parts. Some substances change as the relevant regulations change, which confuses the use and regulation. According to the definition and inclusion conditions of substances with both edible and medicinal values in the Regulation of Substances with Both Edible and Medicinal Values Catalogue, this paper comprehensively reviewed the first batch of 87 substances with both edible and medicinal values published in 2002 by collecting information and investigating the practical application. Some substances supplemented, deleted, and revised were analyzed and discussed, and a complete revised list was compiled, encompassing a total of 90 substances, which were when combined with the 19 substances of the last three batches(published in 2019, 2023, and 2024), amounted to a total of 109 substances. In addition, the substances not currently in the published list but have both edible and medicinal values according to the latest definition were summarized, which revealed at least 27 other substances. Therefore, there were at least 136 substances with both edible and medicinal values. Additionally, the potential substances that could be included in the list of substances with edible and medicinal values were prospected, providing a focus for future expansion of the list. This paper systematically reviewed and revised the list of substances with both edible and medicinal values to lay a foundation for the regulatory authorities to revise the catalog of these substances and provide basic information for promoting the new quality productive forces in the health field and boosting the orderly and rapid development of the big health industry.
China ; Humans ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/standards* ; Plants, Medicinal/chemistry* ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional

Germplasm degeneration occurs during the long-term cultivation of root-and rhizome-derived traditional Chinese medicine(RR-TCM), which seriously restricts the high-quality development of their industry. Therefore, it is urgent to solve the problem of germplasm degeneration through variety breeding. In this paper, based on previously published research articles, monographs, and news reports, the research progresses on the number and origins, breeding methods, and selection of new varieties of RR-TCM listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(Edition 2020) were summarized and analyzed. The results show that there are 169 kinds of RR-TCM listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(Edition 2020), originated from 223 origins with three breeding methods(i.e., seed propagation, vegetative reproduction, and tissue culture), and there are 215 species derived from seed propagation, 177 species derived from vegetative reproduction, and 164 species derived from tissue culture. To date, there are 62 origins breeding new varieties through conventional breeding, cross breeding, mutation breeding, ploidy breeding, or modern biotechnology breeding methods, including 57 origins breeding 145 new varieties through conventional breeding, 10 origins breeding 43 new varieties through mutation breeding, and seven origins breeding 12 new varieties through cross breeding method. They are used mainly to improve yield, disease resistance, and active ingredient content, but only a few new varieties have been widely used. This review will provide useful references in variety breeding, quality breeding, and standardized planting of RR-TCM.
Plant Breeding/methods* ; Plant Roots/growth & development* ; Rhizome/growth & development* ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal ; Plants, Medicinal/classification* ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional

This paper aims to contribute to guaranteeing the stable development and enhancing the understanding of ecological agriculture of Chinese materia medica so that the national strategy and industrial demand can be better served. It first introduces current traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)policy and industrial development status from five aspects, including policy guarantee, theoretical support, technological innovation, standardization system, and brand influence. Then, the paper analyzes the development dilemma of TCM agriculture in production and quality increase and ecological environment protection. It also proposes the development goals of ecological agriculture of Chinese materia medica that meet the current industrial development demand, which are reducing chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and carbon emissions, improving quality, increasing efficiency, and protecting ecological environment. In addition, the new development goals are interpreted through case studies. Finally, this paper proposes four development strategies for ecological agriculture of Chinese materia medica: conducting research on the pattern and spatial and temporal variations of nationwide TCM production areas; studying the internal and external ecological memories of medicinal plant growth from the perspectives of genetic variations and environmental adaptation variations and elucidating their contributions to the formation of quality; carrying out selection and breeding of stress-resistant varieties for ecological agriculture of Chinese materia medica, the optimization of key technologies for soil improvement and restoration and green prevention and control against diseases and pests, and the improvement of quality; carrying out research on the quality assurance and value realization of ecological products made from TCM. This research can provide guidance for policy formulation, theoretical development of the discipline, and the enhancement of industrial technology for ecological agriculture of Chinese materia medica.
Agriculture/methods* ; China ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal ; Plants, Medicinal/chemistry* ; Ecosystem ; Materia Medica ; Medicine, Chinese Traditional

Flavoprotein monooxygenases(FPMOs) and cytochrome P450(CYP450) oxygenases are pivotal monooxygenases in nature, catalyzing crucial redox reactions in diverse biological processes and contributing to the synthesis of highly complex natural products. While CYP450 enzymes have been extensively reported and studied, numerous FPMOs have also been discovered in past research endeavors, yet their classification, catalytic reactions, and catalytic mechanisms remain to be systematically analyzed. This paper comprehensively reviews the latest advancements in FPMOs research, initiating with a classification based on sequence similarities and distinct structural features. It delves into the catalytic characteristics of three subfamilies(FMO, BVMO, and NMO) within Class B FPMOs of plants, which are integral to biosynthetic pathways of natural products. Class B FPMOs encompass two canonical Rossmann fold motifs(FAD-binding GxGxxG and NADPH-binding GxGxxA), along with a central FMO recognition motif FxGxxxHxxxF/Y/W. These enzymes play a key role in regulating various metabolic routes and precisely modulate plant growth and development. Furthermore, the review summarizes the applications of Class B FPMOs of plants, showcasing through concrete examples their potential in synthesizing natural products such as auxins, indigo, and cyanogenic glycosides. These insights will broaden and deepen our understanding of FPMOs, fostering their transition from fundamental research to practical applications. More optimized biosynthetic pathways can be devised by leveraging FPMOs, conducive to the development of novel strategies and tools for agriculture, plant protection, natural product biosynthesis, and synthetic biology.
Biological Products/metabolism* ; Mixed Function Oxygenases/chemistry* ; Flavoproteins/chemistry* ; Plants/metabolism* ; Plant Proteins/chemistry* ; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System/genetics*