Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al.

/Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142 131

Digital Chinese Medicine

journal homepage: http://dcmhi.com.cn

Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products: A Review

Henry Ivanz A. Boya, Alfred Joshua H. Rutillaa, Kimbberly A. Santosa, Allister Matthew T. Tya, Alicia I. Yua,
Tooba Mahboobb,c, Jitbanjong Tangpoongb,c, Veeranoot Nissapatornb,c*
a. School of Science and Technology, Centro Escolar University, Manila, Philippines;
b. School of Allied Health Sciences,Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand;
c. Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT

Article history Natural product is one of the sources of drugs in pharmaceutical
Received 17 Apr. 2018 industry, and one of the notable origin of natural product is the
medicinal plants. Medicinal plants tend to cure some certain
Accepted 25 May. 2018
diseases and could be a source for potential drugs. The Department
Available online 26 Jun. 2018 of Health of the Philippines approved 10 medicinal plants namely
Keywords Allium sativum (Garlic/Bawang), Blumea balsamifera (Nagal
camphor/sambong), Cassia alata (Ringworm bush/akapulko),
Medical plants Clinopodium douglasii (Mint/yerba Buena), Ehretia microphylla
Natural products (Scorpion bush/Tsaang Gubat), Momordica charantia (Bitter
Potential drugs Melon/Ampalaya), Peperomia pellucida (Silver bush/ulasimang
Bato), Psidium guajava (Guava/Bayabas), Quisqualis indica
Infections (Rangoon creeper/niyug-niyogan), and Vitex negundo
*Corresponding author: Veeranoot Nissapatorn, (Five-leaved Chaste Tree/lagundi). The review was conducted to
Assoc. Professor. show that these medicinal plants are capable in treating infections
E-mail: [email protected], and some diseases. It was found that Allium sativum for the
[email protected]. treatmet of wounds, hypertension and tootache; Blumea
balsimifera is effective in diuretic treatment for hypertension;
Peer review under the responsibility of
Cassia alata for the treatment of scabies, fungal infection, athlete’s
Hunan University of Chinese Medicine.
foot, tinea flava, ringworm; Clinopodium douglasii for the
treatment of muscle pain, arthritis, rheumatism, cough, headache;
Ehretia microphylla for the treatment of diarrhea and
stomachache; Momordica charantia for the treatment of diabetes
mellitus; Peperomia pellucida for the treatment of gout and
rheumatism; Psidium guajava for the treatment of wounds and
diarrhea; Quisqualis indica for anti-helmintic medicine; and Vitex
negundo for the treatment of cough, asthma, and fever. In
conclusion, these 10 medicinal plants have natural products that
can be used as source for potential drugs. However, there are still
many species of ethnobotanical plants that are not yet investigated
thoroughly and might be a source for potential drugs. Therefore,
more investigations should be done in other species of plant, most
especially for the plants with practical used.

Copyright © 2018 Hunan University of Chinese Medicine Publishing services provided by Elseiver B.V. On behalf of KeAi
This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
132 Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142

Philippine medicinal plants in 1992 (R.A. No. 8423 –

1 Introduction
Phil. Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health
Ancient medical knowledge has been introduced to us Care), that comprises akapulco, ampalaya, bawang,
since the dawn of historic times, preserved and bayabas, lagundi, niyug-niyogan, sambong, tsaang
transmitted in every nook and corner of this civilized gubat, ulasimang bato, and yerba buena. These
world. Almost all the ancient invention in drug medicinal plants are used by people especially among
discovery, came from the herbal and natural field [1]. the Kalinga people as alternative and first aid
Many important medicines are natural products or medicines [8].
derived from natural products. More than one third Allium sativum (Garlic/bawang) was known for
(39.1%) of all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) treating cuts or wounds [9]; Blumea balsamifera (Nagal
approved drugs are of natural origin, and 48.6% of all camphor/sambong) was known for kidney problems [10];
cancer drugs registered from the 1940s until today are Cassia alata (Ringworm bush/akapulko) was known
either natural products or derivatives. Natural products for the treatment of skin diseases [11]; Clinopodium
are important sources in the drug discovery process. douglasii (Mint/yerba Buena), combined with oregano,
The presence of more than 200,000 natural metabolites was known for anti-asthmatic effect [12]; Ehretia
presenting various bioactive properties demonstrates the microphylla (Scorpion Bush/Tsaang-Gubat) for the
importance of natural products in new drugs discovery [2]. treatment of allergic rhinitis [13]; Momordica charantia
One of the notable sources of natural products are (Bitter Melon/Ampalaya)for antidiabetic effects [14];
the medicinal plants [3]. Since ancient times up to this Peperomia pellucida (Silver Bush/Ulasimang Bato) for
day, medicinal plants have been used for treatment in the treatment of gout and rheumatism [15]; Psidium
most countries [4]. The development of the modern guajava (Guava/Bayabas) for the treatment of wounds [16];
medicine is based on the practices of plant-based Quisqualis indica (Rangoon Creeper/Niyug-niyogan)
traditional medicine, a hundred of years of beliefs and for anti-helmintic effects [17]; and Vitex negundo
observations [5]. (Five-leaved Chaste Tree/Lagundi) for the treatment of
Plants have developed a complex defense system cough, and asthma [18].
which comprise of a complicated range of chemicals. It As the demand of drugs rises for our growing
has been long recognized that the presence of population and growing number of various diseases,
antimicrobial compound in plant tissues as an researchers keep on searching for the sources of new
important factor as natural products and may also serve and more effective drugs. Medicinal plants are one of
as botanical pesticides, or as bactericidal and the leading priorities for the search of natural products
fungicidal agents active against pathogens of human for drug making industry. Thus, this review article
diseases [6]. tackled on the approved medicinal plants by
Plants, one of the most important sources of novel Department of Health of the Philippines under R.A. No.
pharmacologically active compounds that hit the 8423–Phil. Institute of Traditional and Alternative
pharmaceutical industry in drug making, have a long Health Care, and some untapped potential indigenous
history in the treatment of various diseases. As of this medicinal plants that could contribute in breakthrough
day, there are 35,000-70,000 plant species that have of pharmaceutical industries.
been tested for their medicinal use. The plants with
2 Methods
ethnopharmacological uses have been the primary
sources of medicine for early drug discovery relating Electronic literature review method was used in the
to their original ethnopharmacological purposes. study. The data were collected from different databases
Today’s search for drug derive from plants relied on its such as Google, Medline, PubMed, Science Direct, and
bioactivity that led for the isolation of important STUARTXCHANGE for the medicinal uses and
anticancer drugs such as paclitaxel or camptothecin [7]. natural products that can be found in Allium sativum,
The Department of Health of the Philippines Blumea balsimifera, Cassia alata, Clinopodium
circulated a list of “Ten scientifically validated” douglasii, Ehretia microphylla, Momordica charantia,
Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142 Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products 133

Peperomia pellucida, Psidium guajava, Quisqualis maintenance of health and treatment of diseases such
indica, and Vitex negundo. The medicinal plants were as controlling of level of cholesterol and blood
found to be effective for the treatment of various regulation of blood pressure [21].
wounds and diseases. Garlic is a low herb, 30 to 60 cm high. True stem is
much reduced. Bulbs are broadly ovoid, 2 to 4 cm in
3 Results and Discussion
diameter, consisting of several, densely crowded,
3.1 Medicinal plants as source of natural products angular and truncated tubers. Leaves are linear and flat.
Umbels are globose, many flowered. Sepals are oblong,
Plants in general are rich in antioxidants that are
greenish white, slightly tinged with purple. Stamens
crucial for their survival in the environment. These
are not exerted from the perianth.
antioxidants are often associated with a reduction of
Garlic is native to Central Asia and northeastern
health risks that contribute to conditions such as
Iran, and has long been a common seasoning
diabetes. Plant-based traditional medicines are still
worldwide, with a history of several thousand years of
prevalent because plants are often inexpensive to
human consumption and use [22].
prepare, are effective and their use for curing common
ailments results in minimal complications. Thus, plant Blumea balsamifera (Nagal camphor or Sambong)
extracts have become an invaluable source of
Various methods of treatment exist, including herbal
candidate compounds for the development of new
treatment in the Philippines that uses the medicinal
drugs [19].
herb Blumea balsamifera [10].
There are a lot of certain endophytes that are
A very popular Philippine herbal flowering plant
known to occur inside of a living plant. Endophytes are
used as medicine to treat wounds and cuts,
endosymbiotic group of microorganisms, often a
rheumatism, anti-diarrhea, anti-spams, colds and
bacterium or fungus that colonizes in plants and
coughs. It is also used for infected wounds,
microbes without causing apparent diseases.
respiratory infections and stomach pains. Sambong
Endophytes are ubiquitous and have been found in all
is very popular among people with kidney problems
species of plants studied up to this date; however, most
because of its diuretic qualities. It can be taken as an
of the endophyte or plant relationships are not well
early afternoon tea to maintain a healthy urinary
understood. Some endophytes may improve the plant’s
tract. It also helps flush uric acid as well. The
ability to tolerate abiotic stresses like drought, and
Philippine National Kidney and Transplant Institute
some can enhance host growth, nutrition acquisition,
recommends taking sambong for patients with renal
and resistance to insects, plant pathogens, and
problems. Studies noted that it may help to delay
herbivores. These endophytes have an important role
dialysis and other kidney problems. Sambong also
in the regulation of plant communities and can be also
possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties.
a potential interest for they are source of secondary
Blumea balsamifera or sambong is a common
metabolites. Many kinds of plant species play a very
medicinal plant found throughout the Philippines. It is
important role in healing practices in local villages and
common in open fields, grasslands, and waste areas, at
areas. The use of traditional medicine is still prevalent
low and medium altitudes. It also occurs in China,
among the areas of the Philippines. Scientists were
Hainan, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia,
furnished with novel information because of the
Thailand and Vietnam [23].
different documentations of rich traditional
ethno-medicinal knowledge [20]. Cassia alata (Ringworm Bush or Akapulko)

Allium sativum (Garlic or Bawang) Cassia alata L. (Akapulko), commonly known as

‘Ringworm Bush or Senna’, is an erect medicinal
Allium sativum (Garlic/Bawang) has been used as a
shrub (or small tree) that is distributed mainly in the
spice, food, and medicine for over 5,000 years, and is
tropics and sub-tropics. Almost all parts of the plant
one of the earliest documented herbs utilized for the
have medicinal uses. Decoctions of the leaves, flowers,
134 Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142

and bark are used to treat skin diseases such as eczema Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon or Ampalaya)
or pruritis (itching), while a decoction of the wood is
Unripe fruit, seeds and aerial parts of Momordica
useful in cases of constipation. The plant is a source of
charantia Linn. (Cucurbitaceae) have been used in
a wide array of compounds such as alkaloids, lectins,
various parts of the world to treat diabetes. Oral
glycosides, isoflavones, and phyto-estrogens,
administration of the fruit juice or seed powder causes
hydroxyanthraquinones, chrysophanic acid, kampferin,
a reduction in fasting blood glucose and improves
and sannoxide A and B.
glucose tolerance in normal and diabetic animals and
Leaf extracts from this species have shown several
in humans [30].
pharmacological, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal
Momordica charantia is a traditional plant of
properties, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic
Asian origin that has been a popular botanical
effects, and anti-hyperglycemic activities [24] Cassia
proposed for treatment of diabetes and diabetes-related
alata Linn.is locally abundant throughout the
complications. Specifically, bitter melon fruit contains
Philippines in settled areas at low and medium
cucurbitane-type triterpenoids, steroidal saponins
altitudes [25].
called “charantins,” insulinlike peptides, and alkaloids,
Clinopodium douglasii (Mint or Yerba Buena) which are postulated to have effects on carbohydrate
metabolism [31]. Momordicine, charantin, saponins,
Clinopodium douglasii is an aromatic herb of the
glycosides, phenolic constituents, other alkaloids, and
Lamiaceae family. It is an aromatic, prostrate, glabrous,
5-hydroxytryptamine are the phytochemical of
slightly hairy, branched herb. It is cultivated
Momordica charantia and they are responsible for the
throughout the Philippines and is propagated by
antibiotic and antitumor activites along with lycopene
terminal cuttings. It contains 0.8% volatile oil, which
and lutein [32].
consists mainly of pulgenone, pitoeitone, limonene,
The bitter gourds or ampalaya have many health
menthol, menthene and menthenone [26].
benefits and medicinal properties. These are such as
Clinopodium douglasii can be found in northern
kills bacteria, reduce inflammation, kill viruses, fights
Luzon (Cagayan) to Mindanao, in all or most islands and
free radicals, kills cancer cells, kills leukemia cells,
provinces, as a weed in settled areas, occurring in open,
prevents tumors, cleanses blood, reduces blood sugar
waste places, fallowrice paddies, etc. Introduced from
and balance hormones [33].
Mexico and now also established in the Marianne and
Beside these stem and leaf of bitter gourd is used in
Caroline Islands in Taiwan, in Java, and in Amboina [27].
cancer treatment, in vital infections (HIV, herpes,
Ehretia microphylla (Scorpion Bush or Tsaang-Gubat) Epstein Barr, hepatitis, influenza, and measles), in
bacterial infections (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus,
Ehretia microphylla (Tsaang Gubat) is 1 of the 10
and Salmonella), as a bitter digestive aid (for dyspepsia
medicinal plants approved by the Republic of the
and sluggish digestion) and in diabetes [34].
Philippines Department of Health to treat different
Synonyms of M. charantia are M. indica L., M.
ailments C[8]. The leaves are traditionally used for
elegans Salisb., M. chinensis Sprengel, and M.
medicinal purposes as an anti-spasmodic, mouthwash
thollonii Cogn. M. charantia (several different names
and body cleanser, attributed to the effects of different
in Asia and Africa exist), is an important market
components (phenolic acids, flavonoids, benzoquinones,
vegetable in southern and eastern Asia. In tropical
cyanogenetic glycosides, and fatty acids) [28].
America, local varieties originate from Asia and are
Ehretia microphylla, easily found from the Batan
cultivated on a small scale only. M. charantia is a
Islands and northern Luzon to Palawan and Mindanao,
common cucurbit and is widely spread throughout
in most or all islands and provinces, in thickets and
most of tropical Africa [35].
secondary forests at low and medium altitudes of
The native habitat for bitter melon is not known.
Philippines. It also occurs in India to southern China,
The plant is cultivated throughout the tropics,
Taiwan, and Malaysia [29].
especially in China, India, East Africa, Central
Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142 Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products 135

America, and South America. Bitter melon has many Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a native to tropical
different common names, reflecting its widespread use America and presently found distributed in many tropical
in numerous cultures. The fruit has a bitter taste (as its and subtropical countries. Guava fruit is commercially
name clearly conveys) and, for the most part, its important from Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Egypt, Hawaii,
palatability is said to be “an acquired taste.” In India, New Zealand, Philippines, South Africa, Thailand,
southern China, the melon is commonly eaten to cool West Indies, Venezuela, and Vietnam [39].
the body [36].
Quisqualis indica (Rangoon Creeper or Niyug-niyogan)
Peperomia pellucida (Silver Bush or Ulasimang Bato)
Quisqualis indica Linn. is a large scandent shrub of the
Peperomia pellucida L. is an annular herb. The roots are family Combretaceae, or also known as Rangoon
fibrous; stems translucent pale green, erect or ascending, creeper or Chinese Honey Suckle. It is grown in Africa,
usually 15-45 cm long, internodes usually 3-8 cm long, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam,
glabrous and the leaves are medium green on upper and Thailand. Besides unique demand for beautiful
surface, lower surface whitish green, thinly fleshy, drying flowers among the plant lovers and gardeners, this
papery, broadly ovate, 1.5-4 (-5) cm long, 1-3.3 cm wide, species is therapeutically important and used as a
palmately 3-nerved or 5- nerved, glabrous, apex remedy for human illnesses. The leaf decoction
acuminate, base subcordate to truncate, petioles 0.5-2 (-3) alleviates flatulent distension of abdomen and has free
cm long, glabrous. One to several spikes are available, radical scavenging activity. Fruits and seeds combats
terminal and axillary or leaf-opposed, filiform, ca. 3-6 cm nephritis, whereas roots are used to cure rheumatism.
long, the rachis ca. 0.4-0.6 mm in diameter, glabrous, Flowers and seeds are also eaten as famine food in
flowers well-spaced, peduncles ca. 0.6-1 cm long, Southern Asia. The fruits, leaves and seeds contain
glabrous; ovary ovoid; stigmas terminal and also fruits chemicals like ‘quisqualic acid’ and anthelmintic
were subglobose, ca. 0.5 mm long, longitudinally ridged, tannins, which are used to expel round worms and
apex beaked [37]. Peperomia pellucida, a pantropic thread worms from the body. Moreover, methanol
species of American origin. extract of flowers contains high polyphenol contents
that have strong antioxidant activity. The leaves and
Psidium guajava (Guava or Bayabas)
flowers also contain rutin, pelargonidin-3-glucoside
The Psidium guajava (Guava/bayabas) is a and 25-O-acetyl-23,24-dihydro-cucurbitacin F; the
phytotherapic plant used in folk medicine that is latter one acts as an anticancer agent and has shown
believed to have active components that help to treat significant cytotoxic activity [40].
and manage various diseases. The many parts of the
Vitex negundo (Five-leaved Chaste Tree or Lagundi)
plant have been used in traditional medicine to manage
conditions like malaria, gastroenteritis, vomiting, The genus Vitex belongs to the family Verbenaceae and
diarrhea, dysentery, wounds, ulcers, toothache, coughs, comprises of large shrubs or small trees. Vitex negundo
sore throat, or inflamed gums [38]. Linn is most commonly distributed on roadsides and
Bayabas is a somewhat hairy plant reaching a the banks of streams and is called Lakki gida in
height of 8 m. Young branches are 4-angled. Leaves Kannada. It is a large, silvery-tomentose shrub or small
are opposite, oblong to elliptic, and 5 to 1 cm long, the tree with bluish purple flowers in terminal panicles
apex being pointed, and the base usually rounded. with short cymose branches. Leaflets are 3-5 in
Peduncles are 1- to 3-flowered. Flowers are white, 3 to number, middle one slightly longer petiolulate, entire,
3.5 cm across, with in-curved petals, coming out lanceolate, acuminate, 12x2cm and membranous. Bark
solitary or two to three in the leaf axils. Numerous is thin and grey [41].
stamens form the attractive part of the flower. Inferior V. negundo is shown to possess a wide array of
ovaries develop into round or obovoid green fruits 4 to biological activities such as antimalarial activity [42],
9 cm long, turning yellow on ripening and have edible, anthelmintic [43], wound healing [44], antipyretic [45],
aromatic, seedy pulp. antioxidant [46], antifungal [47], and antibacterial [48].
136 Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142

Vitex negundo is globally distributed in List of Medicinal plants approved by the

Indo-Malesia, cultivated in America, Asia, Europe and Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines and
West Indies. Within India, it is found throughout the their medicinal use with corresponding bioactive
greater part of India, ascending to an altitude of 1,500 metabolites are presented in Table 1.
metres in the outer Himalayas [49].

Table 1 Benefits of the Approved Medicinal Plants and the Bioactive Metabolites Present
Medicinal Plants Medicinal Use Bioactive Metabolites
Allium sativum Cuts, regulation of blood pressure, Alkaloids, flavanoids, saponins, protein, and
anti-inflammatory supplement, and controlling of carbohydrates, tannins, cardiac glycosides,
level of cholesterol and reducing sugars, flavones, and flavonols

Blumea balsamifera Kidney problems, hypertension, cuts, infected Steroids or 2-deoxysugars, flavonoids,
wounds, diarrhea, rheumatism, spasms, colds and tannins, polyphenyls, and alkaloids
coughs, respiratory infection, stomach pain and
improve urinary tract

Cassia alata Skin diseases such as eczema or pruritis, Alkaloids, lectins, glycosides, and
constipation, insect bites and scabs, ringworm, isoflavones
and can be used as an ointment, shampoo, soap
and lotion

Clinopodium douglasii Cold, cough, insect bites, headache and stress, Tannins, carbonyls, and flavonoids
body pain and aches due to gout and rheumatism,
nausea and fainting

Ehretia microphylla Skin allergies psoriasis, itchiness, scabies, Microphyllone, baurenol, ursolic acid,
eczema, stomach ache and abdominal pain, and dehydromicrophyllone, hydroxymicrophyllone,
diarrhea cyclomicrophyllone, and allomicro-phyllone

Momordica charantia Coughs, hemorrhoids, scalds and burns, reducing Saponins, glycosides, phenolic constituents,
agent in fasting blood sugar, and improvement of other alkaloids, and 5-hydroxytryptamine
tolerance in glucose intake

Peperomia pellucida Joint pain in arthritis patient, and lowers the uric Flavonoid compounds, tannins, saponins,
acid level in blood steroids, monoterpenes, and sesquiterpene

Psidium guajava Cleaning wounds, anti-microbial, anti-plasmodial, Phenolic compounds, isoflavonoids, gallic
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-genotoxic, acid, catechin, epicathechin, rutin,
cough and cleansing of rectum naringenin, kaempferol ascorbic acid,
carotenoids (lycopene, β-carotene and
β-cryptoxanthin), and glycosides

Quisqualis indica Deworming, fever, painful urination, ulcer, Quisqualic acid, anthelmintic tannins, rutin,
headache, diarrhea, anti-cancer, nephritis and pelargonidin-3-glucoside, and
rheumatism 25-O-acetyl-23,24-dihydro-cucurbitacin

Vitex negundo Cough, asthma, pharyngitis, rheumatism, boils, Phlobatannins, carbohydrates, tannins,
diarrhea, and dyspepsia glycosides, volatile oils, resins, balsams,
flavonoids, and saponins
Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142 Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products 137

Taxonomic Classification of Approved Medicinal Philippines presented in Table 2.

Plants by the Department of Health (DOH) in the

Table 2 Taxonomic Classification of Approved Medicinal Plants

Scientific Name Division Class Order Family
Allium sativum Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Asparagales Amaryllidaceae
Blumea balsimifera Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Asterales Asteraceae
Cassia alata Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Fabales Fabaceae
Clinopodium dougasii Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Lamiales Lamiaceae
Ehretia microphylla Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Boraginales Boraginaceae
Momordica charantia Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Cucurbitales Cucurbitaceae
Peperomia pellucida Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Piperales Piperaceae
Psidium guajava Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Myrtales Myrtaceae
Quisqualis indica Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Myrtales Combretaceae
Vitex negundo Tracheophyta Magnoliopsida Lamiales Lamiaceae

known for their potency in antioxidation, cytotoxic,

3.2 Other plants
and antimicrobial activities. The adaptation of
Due to the abundant flora and fauna of the Philippines, multi-drug resistant bacteria and the rise of contagious
there have been many herbal plants that are not yet diseases led to the reevaluation of the use of antibiotic
approve by the DOH that are used in practicing herbal agents in treatment, and novel solutions as the use of
therapy by local herbalists. Knowing the untapped secondary metabolites as resistance agents though it is
potential of a certain plant can lead to a new still a challenge for Science to exploit under-utilized
discovery in treating certain diseases. An example is plants [52].
the Brucea mollis Wall. Ex Kurz: It is a bitter shrub The essential oils generally possess a broad
found in the mountainous sparse forests, roadside spectrum of bioactivity because of the presence of
shrubs and tickets in China, India, Philippines, Nepal, secondary metabolites. These active ingredients work
Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and through different modes of action. It plays a vital role
[50]
Bhutan . It’s used for the treatment of cancer and in the survival of plants by producing attractants or
malaria in China and India. This has been affirmed by pollinators and it also acts as a chemical defense
revealing the phytochemicals that are found in the [53]
against predators and disease . Plants protect
plant like Yandanziolide, Bruceine, and Bruceine that themselves from the continuous attack of naturally
has antimalarial and anticancer properties. They occurring insect pests, pathogens and environmental
exhibit cytotoxic, amoebicidal, antigiardial, stresses by producing several secondary metabolite
insecticidal, antiviral, anti-leukemic, pesticidal, and compounds including alkaloids, cyanogenic
[51]
anti-feedant activities . glycosides, glucosinolates, flavanoids, saponins,
steroids, tannins and terpenoids.
3.3 Secondary metabolites
Alkaloids, Steroids, Tannins, Terpenoids,
Secondary metabolites are the source of natural Flavonoids, Saponins, Steroids, Cyanogenic Glycoside
products that are being developed into medicine. The and Glucosinolates are the most common secondary
compounds were separated into phenolics including metabolites present on plants. Secondary Metabolites
polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and quinones that are
138 Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142

are specific to an individual species, the use of importance in treating certain diseases.
secondary metabolites mainly as medicines, flavorings Alkaloids are an important natural product that is
and as a recreational drug. found in primarily on plants. It plays an important
Plant bioactive metabolites can be extracted role in as part of the defense complex against animals
through conventional and modern method. and pathogens. An Alkaloid that belongs to
Conventional method includes decoction, infusion, beta-carboline group contains anti-parasite,
[57]
soxhlet extraction, maceration, and hydrodistillation. anti-microbial, and anti-HIV properties . It has
[58]
Modern method includes ultrasound assisted anti-cancer properties , has an anti-inflammatory
extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and activity [59]. It inhibits Trypanosoma cruzi the agent of
supercriticial fluid extraction [54]. Chagas’ disease that is one of the serious protozoan
According to Dr. Alfonso T. Lagaya, the diseases [60].
Philippine government is very supportive in various Steroids are commonly used in treating rheumatoid
activities related to educational, research, and arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease,
[61]
production of traditional herbal medicines. The pulmonary disease, systemic lupus erythematosus . It
government has established The Philippine Institute has an anti-inflammatory property and treats certain
of Traditional and Alternative Health Care. Local diseases such as rheumatoid diabetes, lupus and gout [62].
“quack” doctors have used herbal plants to treat Tannins are water-soluble polyphenols. It is
certain diseases. Thus, the government had also reported to be anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic
research about it to prove the effectivity of different potential because of their anti-oxidative property. It
plants that are used traditionally. There have been two has anti-microbial property because tannic acid
groups in practicing herbal medicine in the country. A inhibits foodborne bacteria and aquatic bacteria. The
group of licensed modern medicine doctors and physiological effects have been reported to reduce
approximately 250,000 disorderly traditional blood pressure, decreases serum lipid level and
herbalists. In China there are 170 medicinal research regulate immunoresponses [63].
that has 15,000 professional researchers. They also Terponoids are commonly used as commercially
have 30 universities and local colleges that has natural flavoring compounds in the food industry. It is
approximately 37,000 medical students that studies the largest and diverse class of phytochemicals. More
medicinal plant as part of the mainstream practice. than 40,000 individual terpenoid exist and new ones
Koreans have also been practicing traditional are found each year. It has anti-oxidant properties and
[64]
medicine and has taken part in the history of South potentially treat liver cancer . It has been found to
Korea that plays significant role in the health care have beneficial properties in as an analgesic,
system. They have a specialized guideline for anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory,
manufacturers and traders of commercially made anti-fungal, anti-parasitic [65].
[55]
herbal medicine . World Health Organization Flavonoids possess anti-oxidant, anti-leukemic,
narrate that about 70% to 80% relies mainly in herbal and improves blood circulation in Alzheimer’s disease.
[56]
medicine . It has free radical scavenging which are useful for
The mentioned table above has summarized the pharmacological activities along with anti-cancer and
common secondary metabolites that can be found in anti-aging [66].
herbal plants. These secondary metabolites have an Saponins are mostly found in vegetable, herbs,
Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142 Recommended Medicinal Plants as Source of Natural Products 139

and beans. It helps lower your cholesterol, reduce the investigations should be done in other species of plant
risk of heart disease, improves your immune function that isn’t common especially those species with
and has anti-cancer property [67]. ethnopharmacological and ethnobotanical used.
Glucosinolates are present in sixteen families of Herbal plants are very beneficial in finding a cure
dicotyledonous angiosperms including large number or stabilization of various diseases. By knowing their
of edible species. They are used as food flavoring that phytochemicals, we can conclude that creating an
stimulate appetite and digestive process. Their known intensive study discover more of its benefits and uses
for their fungicidal, bacteriocidal, nematocidal and and finding its toxicity. Utilizing herbal plants which
allelopathic properties and have recently attracted are abundant to the Philippines can help in
intense research interest because of their cancer industrialization and will help in employing locals.
chemoprotective attributes [68]. Day by day, scientists find that plants can be a
The -thioglucoside-N-hydroxysulfates, precursors potential drug source and can help people in battling
of isothiocyanates, are present in sixteen families of different kinds of diseases. However, further study
dicotyledonous angiosperms including large number must be made in knowing its harmful effect of a
of edible species. human’s body and know if it could be lethal or not. In
Too much intake and wrong dosage of an herbal summarizing herbal plants with its natural product,
plant is very dangerous to your health. It can cure the researchers conclude that further research can
your disease but can affect your other organs in the make a breakthrough in a potential drug that can cure
process of doing so. The common secondary certain diseases and can also bring employment to
metabolites found in herbal plants have risks also. locals that cultivates various herbal plants.
Alkaloids can lead to plant poisoning if not prepared
Acknowledgements
meticulously and in wrong dosage. Steroids has a lot
of side effects such as, acne, blurred vision, cataract The authors would like to extend their gratitude and
or glaucoma, easy bruising, insomnia, bad cholesterol, appreciation to the following person and university
[69] involved: The professors Dr. Zenaida D. Los Baῆos,
high blood pressure, increase in appetite, etc. .
Lack of herbal knowledge can lead to a danger to the Head of Biological Science Department, Dr. Julieta Z.
[70] Dungca, Dean of School of Science and Technology,
patient or user . One should be responsible enough
in intaking herbal medicine. One phytochemical can Dr. Alicia I. Yu, Practicum Coordinator who have
react another one if not known by the user of its molded us to be professionally competitive,
reaction. academically knowledgeable and resourceful
individuals. Dr. Tooba Mahboob, Mr Giovanni
4 Conclusion
Milaῆez and Assoc. Prof. Frederick Masangkay for
Natural products are growing body of research for the guidance and giving us suggestive ideas to make the
development of new drugs derived for different review possible, the Walailak University and Centro
eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. However, there Escolar University for providing us the required
are still tons of species of plant that might possess a facilities to achieve the review. Our parents who have
natural product that are still not screened for provided their support, trust and financial aid in
medicinal use and might be a cause for a completion of their study. Assoc. Prof. Dr Veeranoot
breakthrough in science. Therefore, more Nissapatorn for accepting and treating us, providing
140 Henry Ivanz A. Boy, et al./Digital Chinese Medicine 1 (2018) 131-142

Rhinitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Philippine

our needs and making sure that our stay in Thailand
Journal of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2017,
educational and memorable. 32(2): 6-10.
[14] JOSEPH B, JINI D. Antidiabetic effects of Momordica
Competing Interests charantia (bitter melon) and its medicinal potency. Asian
Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2013, 3(2): 93-102.
The authors declare no conflict of interest. doi: 10.1016/S2222-1808(13)60052-3.
[15] MAJUMDER P, ABRAHAM P, SATYA V.
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Medicine. 2017:1-2 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6196198

可作为天然产物资源的药用植物研究进展

Henry Ivanz A. Boya, Alfred Joshua H. Rutillaa, Kimbberly A. Santosa, Allister Matthew T. Tya, Alicia I. Yua,
Tooba Mahboobb,c, Jitbanjong Tangpoongb,c, Veeranoot Nissapatornb,c*
a. School of Science and Technology, Centro Escolar University, Manila, Philippines
b. School of Allied Health Sciences and cResearch Excellence Center for Innovation, Walailak University, Nakhon Si
Thammarat, Thailand
c. Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

【摘要】在制药行业中，天然产物是药物来源之一，而天然产物的主要来源则为药用植物。药用植物常用
来治疗某些特定疾病，并可能成为潜在药物的来源。菲律宾卫生部批准了 10 种药用植物，分别蒜（Allium
sativum）、艾纳香（Blumea balsamifera）、翅荚决明（Cassia alata）
、柠檬薄荷(Clinopodium douglasii)、福建茶（Ehretia
microphylla） （Momordica charantia）
、苦瓜 、草胡椒（Peperomia pellucida）
、番石榴（Psidium guajava）
、使君子（Quisqualis
indica）和黄荆（Vitex negundo）
。研究证明这些药用植物能够治疗感染和某些疾病。我们发现蒜能治疗伤口、
高血压和牙痛；艾纳香对高血压的利尿治疗有效；翅荚决明能治疗疥疮、真菌感染、脚癣、黄癣、环癣；
柠檬薄荷能治疗肌肉疼痛、关节炎、风湿病、咳嗽、头痛；小叶厚壳树能治疗腹泻和胃痛；苦瓜能治疗糖
尿病；草胡椒能治疗痛风和风湿病；番石榴能治疗伤口和腹泻；使君子是一种驱虫药；而黄荆能治疗咳嗽、
哮喘和发热。综上，这 10 种药用植物都含有可用作潜在药物来源的天然产物。然而，仍有许多民族植物物
种尚未得到充分研究，并可能成为潜在药物的来源。因此，应该对其他植物物种进行更多的研究，特别是
对于实际应用的植物。

【关键词】药用植物；天然产物；潜在药物；感染