DOST, pharma firm partner to standardize sambong for kidney health

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has partnered with Pascual Pharma Corporation (PPC) to develop a standardized extract of Sambong, a well-known herbal treatment for kidney stones and edema.

The collaboration, funded through DOST’s Business Innovation through S&T (BIST) Program, aims to ensure that Sambong-based products meet consistent quality standards, offering more predictable therapeutic outcomes.

“Ensuring that herbal products meet consistent quality standards is crucial for the well-being of our communities. At DOST, we are committed to supporting initiatives that not only innovate but also directly impact people’s health for the better, ensuring that every Filipino has access to safe and effective healthcare solutions they can trust,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.

The project is focused on creating a preclinical trial-ready and standardized Sambong leaf extract, alongside developing a quantitative chemical profiling method that will be essential for quality control.

While Sambong is already recognized for its efficacy in treating conditions like edema and kidney stones, this initiative is particularly concerned with standardizing the extract to guarantee consistent quality, regulatory compliance, and clinical effectiveness.

Under the leadership of Mr. Carmelo E. Briones, the research team is investigating the mechanisms behind Sambong’s diuretic properties, which increase urine production and contribute to its ability to treat kidney-related issues.

By identifying the active ingredients responsible for these effects, the team aims to set stringent criteria for composition and potency, ensuring that the resulting products are reliable and effective.

“Collaboration between government agencies and private institutions is vital in driving initiatives that bring tangible benefits to the Filipino people. This partnership underscores the importance of harnessing both scientific expertise and industry innovation to address pressing healthcare needs,” remarked Dr. Jaime Montoya, Executive Director of DOST-PCHRD.

The project, monitored by the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) under its Tuklas Lunas™ program, is expected to bolster the competitiveness of the Philippine Sambong industry.

The production of a high-quality, standardized Sambong leaf extract as an active pharmaceutical ingredient will not only facilitate broader market acceptance but also provide a natural alternative to conventional treatments for kidney stones and edema. (DOST-PCHRD)