10 Herbal Medicines Approved by the DOH

Bawang, or garlic, is known for its potential health benefits, particularly in managing hypertension. It contains compounds like allicin, which may help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can lead to a reduction in blood pressure levels. Additionally, garlic is believed to have antioxidant properties that support cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of bawang may contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure, making it a popular natural remedy for hypertension management.

Yerba Buena, known scientifically as Clinopodium douglasii, is a traditional herbal remedy recognized for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used to alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatism and body pain due to its ability to reduce discomfort and promote relaxation. This herb is often consumed as a tea or applied topically, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural relief from musculoskeletal pain. Its historical use in folk medicine further supports its effectiveness in treating such conditions.

Bayabas, or guava, is recognized for its antimicrobial properties due to the presence of compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils. These substances exhibit antibacterial and antifungal effects, making bayabas effective in combating various pathogens. Traditional medicine often utilizes bayabas leaves and extracts for their healing properties, particularly in treating wounds and infections. This scientific backing supports the claim that bayabas possesses antimicrobial characteristics, validating its use in both folk remedies and modern health applications.

Bayabas, commonly known as guava, is scientifically classified as Psidium guajava. This tropical fruit belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is native to Central America but is now cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The plant is valued not only for its sweet, aromatic fruit but also for its various health benefits, including high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Guava trees are characterized by their thick, green leaves and can grow up to 10 meters tall, making them a significant part of the agricultural landscape in many countries.

Blumea balsamifera, commonly known as Sambong, is a perennial herb native to tropical regions. It is recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional medicine practices. The plant is often used to treat various ailments, including urinary issues and respiratory conditions. Its leaves contain essential oils and compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects, making it a valuable resource in herbal medicine.

Alium sativum is the scientific name for garlic, commonly known as "bawang" in Filipino. Garlic is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, including its potential to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health. Its active compounds, particularly allicin, contribute to its health benefits, making it a popular choice in both culinary and herbal medicine practices.

Tsaang Gubat, also known as "wild tea," is recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in addressing stomach issues. It is traditionally used to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort, including indigestion and diarrhea. The leaves contain compounds that can help soothe the stomach lining and promote digestive health. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties further contribute to its effectiveness in treating various stomach ailments, making it a popular choice in herbal medicine for digestive support.

Sambong is a well-known herbal medicine recognized for its diuretic properties, which help promote urine production and support kidney function. Traditionally used in various cultures, Sambong is often recommended for treating kidney stones and urinary tract issues. Its active compounds assist in flushing out toxins and excess fluids from the body, thereby alleviating kidney-related problems. This makes Sambong a popular choice in herbal medicine for those seeking natural remedies for kidney health.

Cassia alata, commonly known as Akapulko, is a tropical plant recognized for its medicinal properties and vibrant yellow flowers. It is often used in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions and gastrointestinal issues. The plant thrives in warm climates and is valued not only for its therapeutic benefits but also for its ornamental appeal. Its leaves and flowers are utilized in herbal remedies, making it an important species in both cultural and ecological contexts.

Akapulko, also known as Cassia alata, is primarily used for its antifungal properties and to treat various skin conditions. Its leaves contain compounds that help combat infections, making it effective against fungal skin diseases like ringworm and athlete's foot. Additionally, its soothing properties can aid in healing skin irritations and rashes, which is why it is often utilized in traditional medicine for dermatological issues.

Niyog-niyogan, derived from the seeds of the plant, is recognized for its effectiveness in treating intestinal worm infections. As an anti-helminthic, it works by expelling or killing parasitic worms, making it a valuable natural remedy in traditional medicine. Its classification as an anti-helminthic highlights its role in managing helminthic infections, which are common in various populations. Thus, the statement accurately reflects its medicinal use and properties.

Niyog-niyogan, commonly known for its medicinal properties, is scientifically classified as Quisqualis indica. This plant is recognized for its climbing vines and fragrant flowers, often used in traditional medicine. Its seeds are particularly noted for their anthelmintic properties, helping to expel intestinal worms. The other options listed are unrelated plants, making Quisqualis indica the accurate identification for Niyog-niyogan.

Ulasimang Bato, also known as Peperomia pellucida, is a traditional herbal remedy recognized for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. It is commonly used in herbal medicine to help lower uric acid levels in the body, which can alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis and gout. By promoting urination, it aids in the excretion of excess uric acid, thus providing relief from the painful symptoms of these ailments. Its natural composition makes it a popular choice for those seeking alternative treatments for these conditions.

Ampalaya, commonly known as bitter melon, is scientifically classified as Momordica charantia. This plant is recognized for its distinctively bitter taste and is widely used in various cuisines and traditional medicine, particularly in Asian cultures. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumbers and pumpkins. The fruit of Momordica charantia is known for its potential health benefits, including blood sugar regulation and antioxidant properties.

Ampalaya, also known as bitter melon, is recognized for its potential benefits in managing blood sugar levels. It contains compounds that may mimic insulin and enhance glucose uptake in cells, thereby aiding in glucose control. Research suggests that ampalaya can help lower blood sugar levels, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals with diabetes. Its effectiveness in glucose regulation supports the assertion that ampalaya is primarily used for this purpose.

Lagundi, scientifically known as Vitex negundo, is a traditional herbal remedy commonly used in various cultures for its medicinal properties. It is particularly recognized for its effectiveness in treating coughs, colds, and respiratory issues due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant qualities. The leaves and other parts of the plant are often brewed into teas or used in formulations to alleviate symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, making it a popular choice in herbal medicine. Its rich history and application in natural healing contribute to its recognition as a valuable herbal treatment.

Ulasimang Bato, commonly known for its medicinal properties, is scientifically classified as Peperomia pellucida. This plant is recognized for its succulent leaves and is often used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Its ability to thrive in various environments and its distinctive appearance contribute to its popularity in herbal remedies.

Yerba Buena, a term commonly used to refer to several mint species, is scientifically classified as Mentha cordifolia. This plant is recognized for its aromatic leaves and is often used in traditional medicine, culinary applications, and herbal teas. Its name, which translates to "good herb" in Spanish, reflects its popularity and beneficial properties. The species is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and pleasant fragrance, making it a favored choice in gardens and for medicinal purposes.

Lagundi is a medicinal plant known for its antitussive and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating respiratory conditions. It is commonly used to alleviate coughs, particularly those associated with colds and bronchitis. Additionally, Lagundi may provide relief for asthma symptoms by helping to relax bronchial muscles and reduce airway inflammation. Its natural compounds contribute to easing breathing difficulties, making it a popular choice for managing both cough and asthma.

Tsaang Gubat, a plant native to the Philippines, is recognized for its medicinal properties and is commonly used in traditional herbal remedies. Its scientific classifications include Ehretia microphylla and Carmona retusa, reflecting its diverse taxonomic history. This plant thrives in forested areas and is valued for its leaves, which are often brewed into tea for various health benefits. The dual naming highlights the complexities of botanical classification, where a species may be known by different names in scientific literature.