Researchers from the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila Institute of Herbal Medicine of the National Institute of Health (NIH) have developed a herbal medicine as an alternative treatment for gout and hyperuricemia.

According to Prof. Jade Rodriguez, the “ulasimang bato” has long been used in traditional Philippine medicine for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperuricemic properties, making it one of the medicinal plants endorsed by the Department of Health.

While it has long been used in traditional medicine, UP Manila’s research team has taken it a step further by clinically proving its effectiveness and developing it into an easy-to-take tablet.

Their clinical trials demonstrated a progressive reduction in uric acid levels among participants, with a 40-percent decrease observed by Day 14. This reduction continued, reaching up to 63 percent by Day 28 and up to 78 percent by Day 49.

Notably, no adverse effects were reported, in contrast to conventional gout treatments that may pose risks to kidney and liver health.

“Our research shows that Ulasimang Bato has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperuricemia properties. It could be a safer, more natural way for Filipinos to manage gout without the risks linked to synthetic drugs,” Rodriguez said.

With such promising results, Rodriguez said UP Manila is working to make the “ulasimang bato” tablet available to the public.

The university’s Technology Transfer and Business Development Office is looking for partners to help bring this herbal medicine to the market.

Gout affects over 41 million people worldwide, including around 1.6 million Filipinos. It causes intense joint pain, swelling, and discomfort, making daily activities difficult.

While medications like allopurinol and febuxostat help lower uric acid levels, they can also lead to unwanted side effects on kidney and liver functions.