By Jerry J. Alcayde
Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro — The chief of the Department of Health (DOH) regional office in MIMAROPA (Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) said yesterday that the government is not endorsing any herbal medicine or food supplement as a defense or cure against ailments.
Contrary to reports circulating in social media, Dr. Eduardo C. Janairo, DOH-MIMAROPA regional director, said: “I am not endorsing nor have I given my approval or any testimonials in support to any herbal and food supplements claiming to have therapeutic effect or dietary result.
“Although several herbs contain medicinal properties, there are other substances that maybe harmful and toxic if taken in excess,” he added.
While he is not against the food and herbal supplements industry, Janairo said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has directed all manufacturers, distributors and advertisers of these products to put the disclaimers that they are not remedies or cures to illnesses.