Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 18) — Clinical trials are currently being conducted to study the potential of tawa-tawa and other herbal remedies as an “adjuvant” or additional treatment for COVID-19 patients, Science Secretary Fortunato De La Peña said.
Aside from virgin coconut oil and lagundi, the Science Department is also conducting research on the use of the tawa-tawa plant as a form of therapy for COVID-19 patients who are experiencing mild symptoms.
De La Peña said the plant has already been approved as a health supplement for dengue.
“Since may mga basehan tayo, pinasya natin na aralin natin siya para sa COVID-19. Hindi naman siyang solong gamot. Ang tawag doon ay adjuvant therapy para ma-address ang symptoms,” he told CNN Philippines’ Newsroom Weekend Saturday.
[Translation: Since we already have the basis, we decided to conduct a study on it for COVID-19. It will not be used as a sole treatment. It’s called an adjuvant therapy, to address the symptoms.]
De La Peña added that the study is focusing on the herbal remedies’ potential to help prevent patients from developing severe COVID-19 symptoms.
He said there are now 20 patients undergoing clinical trial and the agency needs at least 45 more individuals.
