Philippine Researchers Develop Bitter Gourd Herbal Medicine to Combat Type 2 Diabetes
The Institute of Herbal Medicine (IHM) at the University of the Philippines Manila has developed an ampalaya (bitter melon) tablet as a breakthrough treatment for type 2 diabetes, presented by Professor Daisy-Mae A. Bagaoisan. Ampalaya (*Momordica charantia*) is rich in bioactive compounds that show significant potential in lowering blood sugar levels.
According to Prof. Bagaoisan, the rising prevalence of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (nIDDM) underscores the need for accessible treatments. Clinical trials of the ampalaya tablet revealed it significantly reduces blood sugar levels, comparable to glibenclamide, with improvements seen within weeks of treatment.
Unlike herbal supplements, this tablet is classified as a herbal medicine, rigorously tested for safety and efficacy, and regulated by the Philippine FDA. It is safe, stable for 1.5 years, and offers a viable, natural alternative for diabetes management with no known side effects.
The ampalaya tablet has shown a significant reduction in blood sugar levels, comparable to glibenclamide, during rigorous clinical trials. It effectively reduces fasting plasma glucose by the third week of treatment and decreases glycosylated hemoglobin after 12 weeks.
The development involved extensive collaboration across various fields, paving the way for the ampalaya tablet’s registration as a therapeutic option for managing diabetes globally.
Category: Pharmaceuticals
Subscribe
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to receive more just like it.
