10 Herbal Medicines in the Philippines Approved by DOH

(Cassia alata L.)

AKAPULKO

(Momordica charantia)

AMPALAYA

(Allium sativum)

BAWANG

(Psidium guajava L.)

BAYABAS

(Vitex negundo L.)

LAGUNDI

NIYOG-NIYOGAN
(Quisqualis indica L.)

SAMBONG
Blumea balsamifera L.

TSAANG GUBAT

Carmona retusa (Vahl.) Masam

PANSITPANSITAN
Peperomia pellucida L.

YERBA BUENA

Mentha cordifolia Opiz

Source: www.philippineherbalmedicine.org

Tips on Handling Medicinal Plants

Buy plants/herbs that are organically grown. (free from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides) Harvest medicinal plant parts early in the morning, avoid harvesting during and after heavy rainfall. Choose mature plant parts during harvesting. (In general, immature plant parts contain lesser medicinal substances.) Avoid drying (air drying or oven drying) on concrete floors. Use drying screens to allow air circulation. Store plant parts in sealed plastic bags or brown bottles in a cool dry place without direct sunlight. (Use moisture absorbent material like charcoal.) Properly prepared and well-dried medicinal plant parts can be used up to six months. Source:

Tips on Preparation for Intake of Medicinal Plants

Use only half the dose prescribed for fresh parts when using dried parts instead.

Avoid using metal utensils when boiling decoctions. (Earthen, enameled, glass or utensils with similar materials are preferred)

Choose mature plant parts during harvesting. (In general, immature plant parts contain lesser medicinal substances.)
Do not cover the pot when boiling medicinal plant parts and always use low flame. Decoctions (or boiled plant parts) easily loose its potency (maximum of 1 day). (Decoctions must be kept lukewarm in thermos to extend its potency for a day) Always consult with a doctor if symptoms persist or if any sign of allergic reaction develops. Source: