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.

Background: Medicinal plants are widely used for healthcare needs, including oral health. In the Philippines, garlic, guava, tsaang-gubat, and hierba buena, although primarily recognized as plants used for the treatment of systemic diseases, are indicated as analgesics for dental pain, treatment of gingival inflammation, and oral health maintenance. Despite studies focusing on the effectiveness of these plants for oral health, there is little to no research on the populace’s knowledge, attitude, and practices on these medicinal plants. Objectives: The study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of Oral Medicine patients from a dental college in Manila on four medicinal plants (garlic, guava, tsaang-gubat, and hierba buena) for oral health. Methods: A descriptive study design was used. Oral Medicine patients (694) were invited to participate in the study through daily text messages containing brief research details. The link to the three-part online questionnaire (Google Forms) was sent via text and Facebook messages, and was answerable within 15-20 minutes. Results: Two hundred fourteen (214) Oral Medicine patients participated, with 147 (68.69%) having knowledge on using medicinal plants for oral health which they mostly knew through friends and acquaintances. Most participants had a generally positive attitude toward medicinal plants for oral health and believed they were beneficial (177, 82.71%), safe, effective, and cheaper than conventional medicine (175, 81.78%), and accessible (171, 79.91%). Only 64 (29.91%) personally used medicinal plants to address their oral health conditions. Garlic (144, 97.96%) was the most widely known and used, followed by guava (52, 35.37%), hierba buena (12, 8.16%), and tsaang-gubat (4, 2.72%). Conclusion Most participants were knowledgeable with a generally positive attitude toward the four medicinal plants for oral health but did not use these to address their oral health problems.
Garlic ; Psidium ; Mentha ; Plants, Medicinal ; Oral Health

BACKGROUND

Medicinal plants are widely used for healthcare needs, including oral health. In the Philippines, garlic, guava, tsaang-gubat, and hierba buena, although primarily recognized as plants used for the treatment of systemic diseases, are indicated as analgesics for dental pain, treatment of gingival inflammation, and oral health maintenance. Despite studies focusing on the effectiveness of these plants for oral health, there is little to no research on the populace’s knowledge, attitude, and practices on these medicinal plants.

The study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of Oral Medicine patients from a dental college in Manila on four medicinal plants (garlic, guava, tsaang-gubat, and hierba buena) for oral health.

A descriptive study design was used. Oral Medicine patients (694) were invited to participate in the study through daily text messages containing brief research details. The link to the three-part online questionnaire (Google Forms) was sent via text and Facebook messages, and was answerable within 15-20 minutes.

Two hundred fourteen (214) Oral Medicine patients participated, with 147 (68.69%) having knowledge on using medicinal plants for oral health which they mostly knew through friends and acquaintances. Most participants had a generally positive attitude toward medicinal plants for oral health and believed they were beneficial (177, 82.71%), safe, effective, and cheaper than conventional medicine (175, 81.78%), and accessible (171, 79.91%). Only 64 (29.91%) personally used medicinal plants to address their oral health conditions. Garlic (144, 97.96%) was the most widely known and used, followed by guava (52, 35.37%), hierba buena (12, 8.16%), and tsaang-gubat (4, 2.72%).

Most participants were knowledgeable with a generally positive attitude toward the four medicinal plants for oral health but did not use these to address their oral health problems.

Abscisic acid, a plant hormone that inhibits growth, is a key factor in balancing plant endogenous hormones and regulating growth and metabolism. Abscisic acid can improve the drought resistance and salt tolerance of crops, reduce fruit browning, reduce the incidence rate of malaria and stimulate insulin secretion, so it has a broad application potential in agriculture and medicine. Compared with traditional plant extraction and chemical synthesis, abscisic acid synthesis by microorganisms is an economic and sustainable route. At present, a lot of progress has been made in the synthesis of abscisic acid by natural microorganisms such as Botrytis cinerea and Cercospora rosea, while the research on the synthesis of abscisic acid by engineered microorganisms is rarely reported. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Yarrowia lipolytica and Escherichia coli are common hosts for heterologous synthesis of natural products due to their advantages of clear genetic background, easy operation and friendliness for industrial production. Therefore, the heterologous synthesis of abscisic acid by microorganisms is a more promising production method. The author reviews the research on the heterologous synthesis of abscisic acid by microorganisms from five aspects: selection of chassis cells, screening and expression enhancement of key enzymes, regulation of cofactors, enhancement of precursor supply and promotion of abscisic acid efflux. Finally, the future development direction of this field is prospected.
Abscisic Acid/metabolism* ; Plant Growth Regulators/metabolism* ; Plants/metabolism* ; Yarrowia/metabolism*

Natural plant-derived diterpenoids are a class of compounds with diverse structures and functions. These compounds are widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and food additives industries because of their pharmacological properties such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. In recent years, with the gradual discovery of functional genes in the biosynthetic pathway of plant-derived diterpenoids and the development of synthetic biotechnology, great efforts have been made to construct a variety of diterpenoid microbial cell factories through metabolic engineering and synthetic biology, resulting in gram-level production of many compounds. This article summarizes the construction of plant-derived diterpenoid microbial cell factories through synthetic biotechnology, followed by introducing the metabolic engineering strategies applied to improve plant-derived diterpenoids production, with the aim to provide a reference for the construction of high-yield plant-derived diterpenoid microbial cell factories and the industrial production of diterpenoids.
Diterpenes/metabolism* ; Biotechnology ; Metabolic Engineering ; Biosynthetic Pathways/genetics* ; Plants/genetics* ; Synthetic Biology