Researchers at the University of the Philippines Manila have developed a cost-effective herbal painkiller derived from yerba buena (Mentha x villosa), also known as marsh mint or spearmint, showing promising results as an alternative to commercial pain medications.
According to Dr. Cecilia Maramba, Director of the UP Institute of Herbal Medicine, the development was inspired by traditional healing practices. After screening various medicinal plants, yerba buena emerged as the most effective for pain relief.
Scientific analysis revealed key analgesic compounds in the plant—mentholactone, beta-sitosterol, and beta-sitosterol-beta-D-glucosidase. The medicine was tested on patients experiencing post-operative pain from dental extraction, childbirth, minor surgery, and circumcision.
Patients reported relief within 10 minutes, with full pain relief in 30 to 60 minutes. The effect lasted up to 13 hours, making it comparable to paracetamol, but without common side effects.
Unlike paracetamol, which may cause liver toxicity, or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can cause gastric irritation, yerba buena tablets showed no such adverse reactions—even in long-term use.
Each tablet is priced affordably at ₱4 to ₱7, and the product is now ready for mass production thanks to updated technology and secured property rights. Originally listed in the Philippine National Formulary in 2008, it was previously removed due to a lack of raw materials.
With renewed momentum, UP Manila hopes the herbal painkiller can help the country become more self-sufficient in healthcare, boost local farming, and even support export opportunities.
Dr. Maramba called on investors to support the manufacturing and distribution of the herbal drug, saying one company is already expressing interest.