By Analou De Vera
The Department of Health (DOH) has reminded the public that capsules made from "tawa-tawa" herbs have not yet been proven to cure dengue.
Health Undersecretary Rolando Enrique Domingo
(RTVM / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
Health Undersecretary Rolando Enrique Domingo said that capsules made from tawa-tawa are considered as supplements.
"At this time, it is only registered as a supplement… It means it is safe. But it has no therapeutic claims," he said.
"It still has a lot of clinical trials to go through before its therapeutic value can be approved," he added.
Domingo said that the public should seek medical consultation if they are exhibiting symptoms of the mosquito-borne illness.
"Those are just supplements. It is always important to have an actual check up and intake of prescribed medication," he said.
To note, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is expected to release a herbal supplement capsule made from tawa-tawa in the local market this month. The tawa-tawa herb is believed to be used to treat dengue.
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that the best way to avoid contracting dengue is to clean the surroundings.
“There is still no cure for dengue. The best thing that we can do is to clean our surroundings, eliminate all mosquito breeding sites that we can find in our homes such as water in vases, tires, water drain at the back of refrigerators. Check for an opening or cracks in your septic tanks because this is where mosquitoes hide and thrive,” he reminded.
The health chief also reminded the local chief executives to sustain their regular clean up drives and encourage people in their respective community to practice the '4s' strategy.
"You can always request for support at the regional office and they are ready to provide assistance,” he said.