Philippine Traditional and Alternative Medicine Essay Example

also known as the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act (TAMA), in 1997.

The Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) was established to support scientific research and product development in traditional and alternative health care. The Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines has endorsed 10 medicinal plants for use as herbal medicine under its "Traditional Health Program" due to their health benefits.

The Department of Health (DOH) supports the use of 10 Medicinal Plants in the Philippines. These plants include:
1. Akapulko (Cassia alata) [pic] - Also known as "ringworm bush or shrub" and "acapulco" in English, this Philippine herbal medicine is utilized for treating various conditions such as tinea infections, insect bites, ringworms, eczema, scabies, and itchiness.
2. Ampalaya (Momordica charantia) [pic] - Commonly referred to as "bitter melon" or "bitter gourd" in English, this Philippine herbal medicine is effective for managing diabetes (diabetes mellitus), hemispheroids, coughs, burns, and scalds. It is also currently being studied for its potential anti-cancer properties.
3. Bawang (Allium sativum) [pic] - Known as "Garlic" in English.

Bawang, a herb in Philippine traditional medicine, has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-hypertensive properties. It is commonly used for lowering blood cholesterol levels. Another herb called Bayabas (Psidium guajava), or "Guava" in English, provides antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective,
anti-allergy, antimicrobial, anti-plasmodial, anti-coughing,
antidiabetic and antigenotoxic benefits. Additionally,Lagundi (Vitex negundo), also known as "5-leaved chaste tree" in English,is used in Philippine traditional medicine to relieve coughs,colds,and fever.

The following herbs are used in Philippine herbal medicine for various health conditions:

1. Ampalaya (Momordica charantia) - commonly known as Bitter Melon, is used to treat diabetes and high blood pressure.

2. Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa)

- used for its anti-diabetic properties and to lower blood sugar levels.

3. Lagundi (Vitex negundo) - used for respiratory problems such as asthma and pharyngitis.

4. Niyog-niyogan (Quisqualis indica L.) - known as "Chinese honey suckle," is used to eliminate intestinal parasites.

5. Sambong (Blumea balsamifera) - also known as "Ngai camphor or Blumea camphor," is used for kidney stones, wounds, cuts, and hypertension.

6. Tsaang Gubat (Ehretia microphylla Lam.) - commonly known as "Wild tea," is taken as a tea to treat skin allergies, including eczema and scabies.

7. Ulasimang Bato | Pansit-Pansitan (Peperomia pellucida) - effective in treating arthritis and gout.

8. Yerba Buena (Clinopodium douglasii) - commonly known as Peppermint, used as an analgesic for body aches and pain.

There are different ways to use medicinal plants, such as in salads, herbal teas, or supplements. Both professional and amateur herbalists often cultivate or collect their own herbs. Creating your own herbal medicine can be a pleasurable and economical activity. However, certain medicines may need specialized knowledge for proper usage, so it is crucial to exercise judgement. Here are some general techniques for preparing homemade herbal medicine. Remember that this guide is not comprehensive; consult specific articles for detailed instructions on individual herbs and their appropriate preparation methods.

Herbal Teas can be made through two methods - infusion and decoction. Infusion involves steeping lighter parts of the plant (leaves, flowers, light stems) in boiled water for several minutes. On the other hand, decoction requires boiling tougher parts like roots or bark for a longer period of time. These herbal teas serve as home remedies and alternatives to tea and coffee. As a general guideline (unless recommended

by a herbalist), use 1 teaspoon of dried herb for every 1 cup of water. Let it steep in boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes. Afterward, strain the herbs and consume the tea 3 to 4 times a day.