Journal of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Orthosiphon stamineus (Java Tea)

Thongchai Sooksawate — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Development of a Personalized Herbal Medicine System Based on Thai Traditional Medicine: A Prototype Framework for Psoriasis Care in Thailand

Krit Pongpirul — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Personalized herbal medicine systems have gained increasing attention within modern healthcare, particularly for chronic diseases characterized by heterogeneous clinical manifestations, fluctuating disease courses, and variable treatment responses. However, the use of individualized herbal formulations in Thai traditional medicine has historically lacked structured knowledge organization, standardized governance frameworks, and systematic clinical outcome monitoring. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the development of personalized herbal medicine systems derived from Thai traditional medicine formulations, using psoriasis as a case study to illustrate the development of a structured personalized herbal therapy system in Thailand. The review covers conceptual mapping between Thai traditional medicine disease classifications and clinical psoriasis phenotypes, the collection and synthesis of 23 reference formulations, cross–formulation ingredient analysis resulting in a structured repository of 114 herbal ingredients, and the development of a “12 + 1 + 1” therapeutic framework consisting of 12 oral formulations stratified by phenotype and disease severity, together with one topical formulation and one herbal bath formulation. The framework is discussed within the context of managed variability and a structured decentralized care model. The review also examines the Contextual Research Design for Herbal Medicine framework, which conceptualizes the relationships among theoretical principles, formulation architecture, therapeutic variability, healthcare delivery systems, outcome measures, and regulatory structures within personalized herbal medicine. Challenges related to standardization, evidence generation, reimbursement mechanisms, and governance under the National List of Herbal Medicines are also discussed. The available evidence suggests that personalized herbal medicine represents a transition from recipe–based traditional knowledge toward a structured therapeutic system capable of supporting traceability, clinical monitoring, quality governance, and real–world evidence generation within modern health systems. Nevertheless, further evidence regarding clinical effectiveness, safety, cost–effectiveness, and implementation feasibility is required to support broader integration into healthcare systems. The concepts discussed in this review may provide a conceptual foundation for the future development of personalized herbal medicine systems for psoriasis and other chronic diseases.

Vichai Chokevivat — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Editorial Board

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Policy and Ethics

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Editor's Note

Vichai Chokevivat — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Monograph of Select Thai Material Medica: YA NUAT MAEO

คณะอนุกรรมการจัดทำ ตำราอ้างอิงยาสมุนไพรไทย — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Medicine Volume 3 (Chinese-Thai-English) (1)

Paradi Sangvatanakul , Wilawan Juengprasert, Boonjai Limsila — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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Development of a Rational Drug Use Model for Substituting Modern Medicines with Herbal Medicines in Health Service Units, Saraburi Province

Chavanvalai Meksawasdichai — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: Although the Ministry of Public Health aims to promote herbal medicines as rational alternatives to conventional drugs across public and private healthcare units to mitigate inappropriate drug use, practical implementation remains constrained by the lack of structured models and low acceptance among medical professionals. This study aimed to investigate the situation, develop, and evaluate a rational drug use model for substituting conventional medicines with herbal alternatives in health service units within Saraburi Province.

Method: This participatory action research involved 30 public medical personnel and 24 private community pharmacists, focusing on three symptom groups (fever/cough/sore throat, diarrhea, and muscle pain). The study comprised three phases: 1) pre-implementation situational analysis via in-depth interviews, 2) model development based on the V-Shape Health Literacy Theory, and 3) pre-and-post evaluation comparing prescribed conventional and herbal drug data. Research tools were validated for content validity by 3 experts. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and the Chi-square test to compare proportional differences.

Results: Phase 1 revealed that Tao Wan Priang, Sahatsara, and Ya Luang Pid Samut were unavailable in drugstores. Phase 2 yielded a multi-component model: training, one-page infographics, an information application, a LINE support group, and a learning forum. Phase 3 showed significant increases in herbal use across all symptoms: for fever/cough/sore throat, Fah Talai Jone use rose (5.25%–15.25%), reducing Paracetamol (10%–15%), Ibuprofen, Amoxicillin, and Roxithromycin use. For diarrhea, Ya Luang Pid Samut use increased (20.24%), decreasing Loperamide (0.5%–12%) and Norfloxacin (3%–10%). For muscle pain, the use of Tao Wan Priang, Sahatsara, and Plai cream increased by 2%–8%.

Discussion: The developed model successfully stimulated the substitution of conventional medicines with herbal alternatives. The marked increase in herbal prescriptions alongside the reduction in conventional drug consumption demonstrates the model's practical utility as a viable framework for expanding rational herbal medicine integration.

Conclusions and Recommendations: This Rational Drug Use (RDU) promotion model effectively increased the utilization of herbal medicines in both public and private healthcare facilities. To drive sustainable change, key policy interventions should be reviewed and effectively implemented in practice. Priority action areas include establishing support systems, such as an herbal RDU application, fostering engagement among private and academic networks, and enhancing public health literacy. Furthermore, robust monitoring and evaluation systems alongside localized communication of successful outcomes should be implemented.

Effects of using Maneevej to adjust structural balance in non–specific low back pain patients

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Non–specific low back pain can occur in individuals of all ages and significantly impacts daily physical activities. Structural body balancing through Maneevej (a traditional Thai manual therapy) offers an alternative approach for alleviating this condition. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Maneevej–based structural body balancing on the relief of non–specific low back pain.

Methods: A quasi–experimental, one–group repeated–measures design was employed. A total of 30 participants with a confirmed diagnosis of non–specific low back pain or musculoskeletal structural imbalance, recruited from King Narai Hospital in Lopburi Province, underwent a 14–day Maneevej self–care protocol. The intervention comprised three key elements: self–awareness of structural body balance, maintenance of postural equilibrium during routine daily activities, and a set of Mani Vet–specific physical exercises. Evaluations were conducted at baseline (Day 0), Day 7, and Day 14 using the following outcome measures: Postural Oswestry analysis for structural balance, the Short–Form McGill Pain Questionnaire for pain assessment, and occiput–to–wall distance (OWD) measurement. Comparative analysis of repeated measures across the three time points was performed using the Friedman test.

Results: Thirty participants were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 55.65 ± 6.93 years. Normality testing using the Shapiro–Wilk test indicated that the data for both pain scores and occiput–to–wall distance (OWD) violated the assumption of normal distribution (p < 0.05). A Friedman test revealed significant differences in pain scores across the three assessment time points (Day 0, Day 7, and Day 14) (p < 0.001). Pain scores progressively decreased from a baseline mean of 6.87 to 3.17 at Day 14. Regarding OWD, the Friedman test also demonstrated significant overall differences (p = 0.020), with statistically significant reductions observed between Day 0 and Day 7, as well as between Day 0 and Day 14 (p < 0.05), corresponding to a decrease from 2.41 cm to 1.94 cm. The overall satisfaction level with the program was rated as moderate, with a mean score of 2.63 out of 5.

Discussion: The results suggest that the Maneevej self–care program produces significant therapeutic benefits in terms of pain reduction and improved postural alignment within a two–week intervention period. The observed analgesic effect may be explained by the Maneevej exercises reducing mechanical loading on the lumbar spine and relieving myofascial tension in the lower back musculature. In addition, the decreased OWD values indicate effective stretching of shortened pectoral and anterior neck muscles, which likely contributed to the restoration of optimal head and cervical spine alignment, thereby improving overall postural balance.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The findings demonstrate that the Maneevej self–care program significantly alleviates pain and enhances structural body balance in individuals with non–specific low back pain over a 14–day intervention period. Accordingly, the program should be promoted for broader application among working–age adults and the elderly as a preventive strategy against low back pain. Additionally, it has the potential to be further developed as a cornerstone for building health literacy and empowering individuals to adopt sustainable self–care practices.

Effect of Herbal Medicine Phrao Nok Kum (Curculigo latifolia) Mixed with Frankincense for Charcoal Sitting on Reducing Mucus and Vaginal Discharge in Women

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: Abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age can result from various causes, particularly Candida albicans infection and sexually transmitted infections. Postpartum herbal steam therapy (Yoo Fai), a traditional Thai medicine practice, has long been used for postpartum care to reduce pelvic blood congestion, promote lochia elimination, and facilitate vaginal wound healing. A review of the literature indicates that Phrao Nok Kum (Curculigo latifolia Dryand. ex W.T.Aiton) possesses uterotonic and emmenagogue properties, enhances blood circulation, exhibits antioxidant activity, and inhibits the growth of c. albicans. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity, determine the effectiveness in relieving abnormal vaginal discharge,

and evaluate participants' satisfaction with the herbal medicine Phrao Nok Kum mixed with frankincense among women of reproductive age.

Methodology: This laboratory and quasi–experimental study consisted of two phases. First, the antioxidant activity of a traditional Thai herbal steam therapy formulation containing Phrao Nok Kum (Curculigo latifolia Dryand. ex W.T.Aiton) as the principal ingredient together with nine medicinal herbs was investigated. The herbal formulation was extracted with 95% (v/v) ethanol, and its antioxidant activity was determined using the 2,2–diphenyl–1–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The EC₅₀ value was subsequently calculated. Second, the effectiveness and user satisfaction of a spindle–shaped herbal steam stick developed from the formulation, consisting of Phrao Nok Kum herbal powder, benzoin resin, teak sawdust, and Yang Bong resin, were evaluated in 23 women aged 18–50 years who presented with abnormal vaginal discharge or genital itching and had not received treatment for these symptoms. Participants underwent traditional Thai herbal steam therapy once daily for 30 minutes over five consecutive days. The characteristics, quantity, itching, odor, and color of vaginal discharge were assessed daily, while user satisfaction was evaluated using a five–point Likert scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including the mean and standard deviation.

Results: The antioxidant activity of the herbal charcoal–sitting powder extracted with 95% ethanol (v/v) was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The results showed that the herbal charcoal–sitting powder had an EC₅₀ value of 30.37 ± 1.46 µg/mL, indicating strong antioxidant potential. The study on the efficacy of Curculigo latifolia and benzoin resin herbal preparation was conducted in 23 female volunteers aged 18–50 years. Participants performed the charcoal–sitting treatment once daily for 30 minutes for five consecutive days. After treatment, 100% of the volunteers exhibited no thick, mucoid, or mucoid–watery vaginal discharge. However, 17.39% showed mucus–like discharge, and 47.83% had watery discharge. The color of the discharge was yellow in 44.35% and clear in 60.87% of participants. Furthermore, 34.78% reported no vaginal discharge, and 95.65% indicated that the discharge was odorless. By the third session, 100% of the volunteers reported no itching symptoms. In terms of satisfaction, participants expressed a high level of satisfaction with the product’s aroma and amount of smoke, scoring 3.87 ± 0.63 and 4.22 ± 0.60, respectively. Satisfaction levels were highest for product warmth (4.57 ± 0.79), ease of use (4.70 ± 0.47), overall satisfaction (4.61 ± 0.50), and product design (4.65 ± 0.49).

Discussion: The herbal charcoal–sitting preparation containing Curculigo latifolia demonstrated antioxidant activity and effectiveness in reducing vaginal discharge among women after continuous use for five days. The antioxidant properties of the herbal components play an essential role in protecting female reproductive cells from oxidative stress. In addition, the heat generated during the charcoal–sitting process helps to eliminate bodily waste and may reduce moisture, which is a contributing factor to infection. Consequently, these effects collectively help alleviate vaginal discharge symptoms. However, if abnormal vaginal discharge occurs such as strong unpleasant odor, changes in color, or severe itching it is recommended that individuals consult a physician for further diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The herbal charcoal–sitting preparation containing Curculigo latifolia possesses antioxidant activity and is effective in reducing vaginal mucus and leukorrhea in women. Therefore, it may serve as an alternative approach for women’s healthcare. Further studies on related pharmacological activities such as antifungal, antibacterial and anti–inflammatory effects, as well as toxicity testing, should be conducted to confirm its efficacy and safety. In addition, the charcoal sitting procedure should be performed under the supervision of a Thai traditional medicine or practitioner.

Comparative Efficacy of Oil–Assisted Deep–Tissue Nuad Thai with and without Thai Herbal Hot Compress for Relieving Muscle Pain in Patients with Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Natthiya Worakunwarunrat, Thunnawat Wattanaseth — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Chronic pain, particularly in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), characterized by hyperirritable myofascial trigger points (TrPs) within skeletal muscles, is a significant health problem affecting quality of life with high recurrence rates, especially in the trapezius muscle. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai combined with Thai herbal hot compress versus oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai alone in relieving chronic pain.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in 60 participants aged 25–55 years with trapezius MPS, divided into two groups of 30 using stratified randomization. The experimental group received a 1–hour session of oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai using the "Chaloei Sak" (folk–style) technique along the "Sen Sib" lines (similar in pressure and strokes to Swedish massage) combined with a 20–30–minute standard Thai herbal hot compress. The control group received only a 1–hour oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai. Both groups received treatment once weekly for three consecutive weeks. Outcomes were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain assessment, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) at 7 trigger points (TrP1–TrP7) of left and right sides of trapezius muscle, participant–perceived pain improvement and participant satisfaction. Following one drop–out in the experimental group after the first session due to personal illness, per–protocol analysis was performed on 59 participants (29 experimental, 30 control).

Results: Baseline characteristics showed no statistically significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). After 3 weeks, both groups showed significant reductions in VAS pain and NDI scores (p < 0.05). Mean reductions for the experimental and control groups were 4.55 vs. 4.17 points for VAS and 14.17 vs. 11.40 points for NDI, respectively, with no significant differences between groups. PPT values increased significantly across all trigger point locations (p < 0.001) in both groups, most prominently at TrP2 (upper portion). Though the increase of PPT values in experimental group seemed to be slightly higher than that of the control group, there were no significant differences between groups. Regarding perceived pain improvement, most participants in the experimental group (55.20%) reported moderate improvement, whereas 63.34% of participants in the control group reported high improvement, with no statistically significant difference between groups (p = 0.174). Participant satisfaction was 100.00% in the experimental group and 96.70% in the control group (p = 1.000).

Discussion: Both modalities effectively reduced VAS and NDI after 3 weeks. Mechanical pressure from deep–tissue massage facilitated myofascial release, enhanced blood circulation, and inhibited spinal pain signals via gate control theory alongside parasympathetic activation. Despite non–significant intergroup differences (p > 0.05), the experiment group that also received herbal hot compress showed slightly greater pain reduction, this could partly be due to the thermal effects lowering connective tissue viscosity while increasing vasodilation, combined with anti–inflammatory action from phlai (Zingiber montanum rhizome) and turmeric. Significant PPT increases at all trigger points (p < 0.001), especially TrP2, confirmed reduced muscle pain sensitivity.

Conclusion and Recommendations: Both oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai with herbal hot compress and oil–assisted deep–tissue Nuad Thai alone significantly reduced pain and improved neck function without statistical intergroup differences. Both methods are safe, cost–effective alternative therapies suitable for individuals experiencing chronic pain resulting from repetitive strain and muscular overuse.

Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activities of “SAN–BAI–TANG” Formula and Its Herbal Components

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: "San–Bai–Tang" is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) polyherbal formulation historically administered orally to harmonize Qi and Blood, tonify the spleen, and improve skin complexion from within. It consists of four medicinal herbs in equal ratios: Baizhu (Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz.), Baishao (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), Fuling (Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf), and Gancao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.). This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacities of extracts of San–Bai–Tang and its individual herbal components, using solvents with different polarities to assess their potential use as active ingredients in herbal cosmeceuticals. Evaluations included total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant capacities via DPPH radical scavenging assay and ferric–reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay.

Methods: Individual herbs and the San–Bai–Tang formula were extracted using two extraction systems, i.e., water decoction and agitated maceration in 95% ethanol. The resulting extracts were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2–Diphenyl–1–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays.

Results: The 95% ethanol extract of the San–Bai–Tang formula contained higher TPC and TFC content (52.60 ± 3.48 mg GAE/g and 47.16 ± 1.77 mg QE/g, respectively) compared to its water extract (28.11 ± 1.31 mg GAE/g and 20.41 ± 1.06 mg QE/g, respectively). In contrast, water extracts of both San–Bai–Tang formula and individual herbs exhibited significantly higher antioxidant capacities in both DPPH and FRAP assays than their corresponding 95% ethanol extracts. For the formula, the water extract showed DPPH and FRAP values of 297.18 ± 1.03 and 154.33 ± 4.68 mg TE/g extract, whereas the ethanol extract showed 217.40 ± 2.47 and 127.05 ± 1.45 mg TE/g extract, respectively. Notably, water extract of Fuling possessed low TPC (8.12 ± 0.65 mg GAE/g) and TFC (2.44 ± 0.40 mg QE/g), yet demonstrated high DPPH (305.33 ± 0.85 mg TE/g) and FRAP (215.35 ± 4.84 mg TE/g) activities, while water extract of Baizhu demonstrated the highest overall antioxidant capacities. These findings highlight the significant contribution of non–phenolic/non–flavonoid water–soluble bioactive compounds, such as β–glucan polysaccharides, to the antioxidant potential of the decoction.

Discussion: Although the 95% ethanol extracts of the San–Bai–Tang formula and its individual herbal components contained approximately two–fold higher total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) than their corresponding water extract, antioxidant evaluations via both DPPH and FRAP assays revealed that the water extracts exhibited significantly superior activities. This reflects that antioxidant capacity does not rely solely on phenolic or flavonoid compounds but is strongly driven by other water–soluble non–phenolic bioactives—such as polysaccharides in Fuling and Baizhu, monoterpene glycosides in Baishao, and triterpene saponins in Gancao—which readily dissolve in water and efficiently donate electrons or hydrogen atoms to neutralize free radicals. The polyherbal combination within the formula thus fosters synergistic effects among these diverse antioxidant constituents. Consequently, these findings support the potential of San–Bai–Tang remedy as an antioxidant active ingredient for the formulation of herbal cosmeceuticals, suggesting that water–containing solvent systems are more appropriate for extraction than high–concentration ethanol alone.

Conclusion: The San–Bai–Tang formula demonstrates strong potential as a natural source of antioxidants. Although 95% ethanol yields higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, hot water extraction exhibits significantly superior antioxidant capacities, driven primarily by water–soluble non–phenolic bioactives. These findings provide a scientific rationale for selecting water–containing solvent systems when formulating San–Bai–Tang into active ingredients for herbal cosmeceuticals.

Antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of extracts of Suea Khao capsule formulation and its herbal components

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: The Sua Khaw Capsule is a formula developed from the original Chinese medicine formula, Yu Ping Feng San. The recent COVID–19 outbreak has significantly impacted the health and lives of the global population. The Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Huachiew Chalermprakiet University therefore developed and improved this herbal medicine formula which has the properties of increasing vital energy, strengthening the lungs and spleen, and nourishing yin. However, it still lacks research support in various fields. Hence, this research aims to study antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of different extracts of Sua Khaw capsule formula and its herbal components, and conduct quality assessment of the finished product to prepare data for future herbal medicine registration.

Methods: Sua Khaw Capsules and its 12 herbal components; namely, Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus), Dang Shen (Codonopsis pilosula), Tai Zi Shen (Pseudostellaria heterophylla), Bai Zhu (Atractylodes macrocephala), Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia divaricate), Nan Sha Shen (Adenophora tetraphylla), Jin Yin Hua (Lonicera japonica), Lian Qiao (Forsythia suspensa), Zi Su Ye (Perilla frutescens), Huo Xiang (Pogostemon cablin), Shen Qu (Medicated Leaven), and Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) were extracted with 3 types of solvents, i.e., ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water. The crude extracts were then tested for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans using agar well diffusion method; and extract concentrations that inhibited and killed such microorganisms were also determined. Regarding the safety of this herbal formula, these extracts were tested for cytotoxicity against Vero cells; and microbial and heavy metal contaminations of Sua Khaw capsules were also determined using methods described in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP).

Results: Ethyl acetate (EA) extracts of 12 Chinese herbs and Sua Khaw capsule formula demonstrated inhibitory activity against S. aureus with inhibition zone diameters (IZD) ranging from 13.3 – 28.0 mm, with MICs in the range of 0.39 – 12.5 mg/ml. EA extract from Gan Cao showed highest inhibitory activity, with IZD of 28.0 mm and MIC of 0.39 mg/ml. Gan Cao and Bai Zhu EA extracts also showed inhibitory activity against C. albicans, while EA extracts of Tai Zi Shen and Jin Yin Hua also inhibited E.coli. However, such inhibitory activity was weaker than that against S. aureus. Ten ethanol (ET) extracts (except those of Dang Shen and Nan Sha Shen) exhibited inhibitory activity against S. aureus with IZDs ranging from 14.0 – 28.3 mm, and MICs of 0.097 – 12.5 mg/ml. Gan Cao ET extract showed the best inhibitory activity, with IZD of 28.3 mm and MIC of 0.097 mg/ml. For Sua Khaw Capsule formula, both EA and ET extracts, demonstrated inhibitory activity against S. aureus with IZDs of 16.5 and 17.5 mm, respectively, and equal MICs of 3.13 mg/ml. For the water extracts, only those of Lian Qiao, Su Ye and Jin Yin Hua showed inhibitory activity against S. aureus. All extracts showed cytotoxicity against Vero cell cultures with the IC₅₀ range of 60.70 µg/ml to >1,000 µg/ml. The results of heavy metal contaminations in Sua Khaw capsules showed that the contents of arsenic, cadmium, and lead passed the acceptance levels of THP, while the results of microbiological quality assessment of Sua Khaw capsules passed the acceptance levels of THP after subjected to gamma irradiation.

Discussion: EA extracts of all herbal components and ET extracts of 10 out of 12 herbs exhibited inhibitory activity against S. aureus, and the EA and ET extracts of Sua Khaw capsule had equal MICs against S. aureus of 3.13 mg/ml, indicating that the two solvents had similar extractive activity efficiency to extract antibacterial compounds. EA and ET extracts of Gan Cao showed the highest inhibitory activity with MIC values of 0.39 and 0.097 mg/ml, respectively. This may be due to a high content of isoflavonoids present in the roots of Gan Cao, which can be well extracted by ET and EA. It was found that the Tai Zi Shen EA extract showed a relatively high toxicity to Vero cell cultures, with IC₅₀ of 60.70 µg/ml, while EA extract of Sua Khaw capsule showed a much lower cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ 314.6 µg/ml). This was partly due to a small proportion of such cytotoxic herb in the herbal formula.

Conclusions and Recommendation: Of all the extracts, EA extracts showed highest inhibitory activity against S. aureus, followed by ET extracts; however, all extracts tested showed lower antimicrobial activities than the positive controls (levofloxacin and clotrimazole). Water appeared to be an inappropriate solvent for the extraction of antimicrobial compounds from this herbal formula. Only EA or ET extracts of Tai Zi Shen, Gan Cao, Bai Zhu and Jin Yin Hua also showed inhibitory activity against E. coli or C. albicans as well, but with lower activity. Although Sua Khaw capsule formula showed low cytotoxicity to Vero cells, more toxicity studies as well as pharmacological and clinical studies should be conducted to support its safe use in humans and therapeutic efficacy.

Development and Validation of Oxyresveratrol Quantification Method in Artocarpus lacucha Roxb. Heartwood by Ultra–High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Aussavashai Shuayprom, Thanawat Thongchin, Sayan Ruengkhet, Sakwichai Ontong — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Oxyresveratrol is an active principle in the heartwood of Artocarpus lacucha Roxb. ex Buch.–Ham. (Ma Hat in Thai) with antioxidative, anti–inflammatory and pain–relieving activities. This heartwood has been used as an herbal ingredient in various traditional medicinal products and herbal health supplements in the markets. However, available analytical methods for the quality control of oxyresveratrol in A lacucha heartwoood are still practically complicated and inconvenient regarding the extraction process and analytical time. Therefore, this study aimed to develop new analytical method for the quantification assessment of oxyresveratrol in A. lacucha heartwood samples using ultra–high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) technique.

Methods: The study was divided into three steps, namely, 1) developing UHPLC method for the analysis of oxyresveratrol in A. lacucha heartwood, 2) testing the validity of the newly–developed analytical method, and 3) quantitative analysis of oxyresveratrol in 8 samples of
A. lacucha Roxb. heartwood using new method.

Results: UHPLC method development for the analysis of oxyresveratrol in A. lacucha heartwood: It was found that oxyresveratrol was best extracted by reflux with methanol for
30 minutes. Chromatographic separation was achieved using ARC–18 column (4.6 x 150 mm,
2.7 µm) as the stationary phase, 0.1% ortho–phosphoric acid in water and 0.1% ortho–phosphoric acid in acetonitrile as the isocratic mobile phase, and detection with diode array detector (DAD) at 326 nm. Under these analytical conditions, the average retention time for oxyresveratrol was 4.76 minutes. Method validation: The calibration curve of oxyresveratrol was found to be linear at the concentration range of 14.33 – 229.32 µg/mL with correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9999. The percentage recoveries and % relative standard deviation (%RSD) were in the range of 98.03 – 98.70% and 0.52 – 0.87%, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) of oxyresveratrol was 0.274 and 0.912% w/w of the dried heartwood, respectively. Quantitative analysis of oxyresveratrol in 8 heartwood samples showed that the content of oxyresveratrol was in the range of 1.54 – 26.23% w/w (on a dry weight basis).

Discussion: The developed UHPLC method for determining oxyresveratrol content in A. lacucha heartwood met all acceptance criteria for analytical method validation. The newly developed method is rapid, with a simple, convenient, and efficient mobile phase preparation process, making it suitable for routine analysis of oxyresveratrol in A. lacucha heartwood. The analysis of eight heartwood samples revealed an average oxyresveratrol content of 8.80 ± 8.27% w/w (on a dry weight basis). This wide variation highlights significant quality differences among raw materials currently available in the domestic herbal market. Consequently, further research is needed to determine the optimal harvesting period for A. lacucha heartwood to ensure standardized quality for pharmaceutical and herbal product manufacturing.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The developed method is suitable for the quantitative analysis of oxyresveratrol in A. lacucha heartwood. Furthermore, additional research should be conducted to establish acceptance level of oxyresveratrol content in the monograph of “Kaen Ma Hat” or Artocarpus lacucha heartwood or in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP) in the future.

Development and Validation of Orientin and Vitexin Quantification Method in Passiflora foetida L. Leaves by Ultra–High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: “Ka Thok Rok” has the scientific name Passiflora foetida L. belonging to Family Passifloraceae, L., commonly known as Fetid Passionflower, is a medicinal plant whose leaves contain high amounts of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, particularly orientin and vitexin. Ethanol extracts from the leaves exhibit analgesic, antioxidant, and anti–inflammatory activities, leading to their widespread use in pharmaceuticals and herbal health products. However, standardized quality control methods for these active compounds are currently lacking. Therefore, this study aims to develop and validate an Ultra–High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) method for the quantitative analysis of orientin and vitexin in P. foetida leaves.

Methods: The study was divided into three steps: developing the UHPLC method for analyzing orientin and vitexin in Ka Thok Rok leaves, testing the validity of the analysis method, and analyzing the quantity of orientin and vitexin in 14 Ka Thok Rok leaf samples.

Results: The method developed for analyzing orientin and vitexin in raw Ka Thok Rok leaves using UHPLC involves the extraction of dried Ka Thok Rok leaves with 50% ethanol as the solvent through the reflux method for 60 minutes, the ARC–18 column, 4.6 x 150 mm, particle size 2.7 μm as the stationary phase, using 0.1% ortho–phosphoric acid in water and 0.1% ortho–phosphoric acid in acetonitrile as the mobile phase, and detecting with diode array detector (DAD) at 340 nm. The analytical system showed average retention times of 3.98 and 4.31 minutes for orientin and vitexin, respectively. This method was validated by establishing the linearity for orientin and vitexin at concentration range of 1.27 – 122.30 and 1.35 – 129.36 μg/mL, respectively, with equal determination correlation coefficient (r) of 0.99998. The % recovery were in the range of 99.03 to 101.74% and 97.70 to 101.05%, respectively. The limit of detection of orientin and vitexin were 0.009 and 0.012% w/w on a dry basis, while limit of quantification were 0.031 and 0.042% w/w, respectively. The average content of orientin and vitexin in the 14 leaf samples were 1.00 and 0.14% w/w, respectively.

Discussion: The method developed for analyzing orientin and vitexin in raw Ka Thok Rok leaves using UHPLC involves the extraction of dried leaves with 50% ethanol as the solvent through the reflux method. Quantitative analysis of orientin and vitexin in 14 Passiflora foetida leaf samples revealed average orientin and vitexin contents of 1.00 and 0.14% w/w, respectively. The results of the validity test of the analytical method were all within acceptable limits. This developed orientin and vitexin quantification method requires less time for analysis and involves a simple, convenient, and rapid preparation of the mobile phase.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The developed analytical method is suitable and reliable for the quantification of orientin and vitexin in Passiflora foetida L. leaves, and serves as a foundation for future research to quantify these compounds in herbal products containing P. foetida leaves. The content of orientin and vitexin found in this study can also provide inputs for the future establishment of standardized content of these active markers in Ka Thok Rok leaves.

Development and Validation of Analytical Method for Quantitative Analysis of Rosmarinic Acid from Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. Leaves and Its Finished Products by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq., commonly known as Java tea, is currently listed in the Thai National List of Essential Medicines in the form of herbal tea and is also commercially available as capsule. However, the current Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP) lacks an official content specification for the quantitative determination of active marker in both the raw material and its finished products. This study aimed to develop and validate an analytical method for rosmarinic acid content in this medicinal plant and its finished products, namely, capsule and tea.

Methods: This research was divided into three parts: 1) development of an extraction method for rosmarinic acid from O. aristatus using reflux extraction with 50% v/v ethanol; 2) validation of the analytical method using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) in accordance with ICH guideline;3) determination of rosmarinic acid content in raw material and its finished products.

Results: The optimal extraction condition was determined to be reflux extraction with 50% v/v ethanol for 30 minutes. The optimized chromatographic system utilized a C18 column (4.6 x 150 mm, 5 µm) as the stationary phase. The mobile phase consisted of an isocratic mixture of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water (30:70), with a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min and UV detection at 330 nm. Under these conditions, the peak for rosmarinic acid appeared at a retention time of 9.6–9.7 minutes. The method demonstrated high specificity and excellent linearity within the concentration range of 10–140 µg/ml, with a correlation coefficient (r) ≥ 0.9999. Precision studies showed %RSD values between 0.6–1.5, while accuracy was confirmed with % recovery ranging from 96–101. Furthermore, the method exhibited robustness against variations in mobile phase proportions, flow rate, and column temperature. The analysis of 14 samples of Java Tea revealed a rosmarinic acid content ranging from 0.35% to 2.30% w/w and the mean was 0.60+0.16 %w/w. The rosmarinic acid contents of the capsule and the tea ranged from 0.37 % to 0.44 %w/w and from 0.22 % to 0.61 %w/w, respectively.

Discussion: The developed analytical method offers significant advantages over previously reported methods due to its simplicity and reduced time required for both sample and mobile phase preparation. It is applicable for the quantification of rosmarinic acid in both raw material and its commercial products.

Conclusion: This validated method serves as a valuable tool for not only determining the rosmarinic acid content but also standardizing the rosmarinic acid content in the O. aristatus monograph including its commercial products for future publication of the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia.

Keywords: Rosmarinic acid, Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq., Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography

A Transliteration and Study of The Saroj Sangha, Saroj Songkroh and Sarot Kamklon Manuscript

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: The Dhatuwivorn scripture, a fundamental manuscript required for the study of Thai traditional medicine practitioners, references the Saroj manuscript. While Vajirayan Wiset: Paet Mo, authored by Prince Srisaowabhang, identified the Saroj manuscript as one of the introductory texts that should be studied by TTM practitioners. These historical references reflected the significance of the Saroj manuscript within the traditional medical knowledge system. It was found that the National Library of Thailand had preserved this manuscript, including Saroj Sangha (Volumes 1 – 2), Saroj Songkroh (Volume 1), and Sarot Kamklon (Volume 1). Therefore, this study aimed to examine, transliterate, and comparatively analyze these manuscripts in order to expand the body of knowledge on Thai Traditional medical literature and to provide reliable reference materials for teaching, curriculum development, academic research, and future clinical applications.

Methods: This study employed documentary research. Four ancient manuscripts related to the Saroj manuscript were identified and collected from the Manuscripts and Inscriptions group of the National Library, Fine Arts Department. Facsimile copies of the original manuscripts were prepared, and the texts were transliterated into contemporary Thai. The transliterated manuscripts were subsequently analyzed using content analysis. Their medical knowledge, textual structure, similarities and differences among the manuscripts, and variations in recorded passages were systematically compared. The major findings were then interpreted through comparative textual analysis and discussed in relation to other Thai traditional medical manuscripts.

Results: It was found that Saroj Sangha (Volume 1 – 2) and Saroj Songkroh (Volume 1) were recorded in both Thai and Khmer–Thai scripts, using the Thai and Pali languages, whereas Sarot Kamklon, Volume 1, was written entirely in Thai script and the Thai language. The Saroj manuscript were found to comprise ten principal categories: (1) causes of disease (2) Samutthan of disease, (3) medicinal tastes, (4) characteristics of the body, (5) harmful factors that weakened the body's digestive fire, (6) Asurinthanyan Dhat, (7) Various types of fevers, (8) the four categories of blood, (9) Pikat Ya (herbal classification systems) and the Benjamatra (five measures), and (10) the tastes of the earth (Pathawi) and water (Apo) elements as manifested in medicinal plants. Several sections contained medical knowledge that had not previously been documented in other extant Thai Traditional manuscripts. In addition, two previously unreported Pikat Ya, namely Trisukhonthashat and Jatukhanthashat, were identified.

Discussion: The term Saroj literally meant "lotus" and symbolically represented the flourishing and dissemination of medical knowledge. The manuscript emphasized five fundamental principles—season, time, disease, medicinal taste, and age. Without this knowledge, one cannot properly prepare medicine for royal service. The textual evidence and intertextual references suggested that Saroj Sangha had been compiled earlier than Dhatuwivorn, and that Dhatuwivorn had incorporated or adapted portions of its contents from Saroj Sangha. The findings also demonstrated that the Saroj manuscripts shared substantial conceptual relationships with other Thai Traditional medical manuscripts. One notable example involved the description of harmful factors affecting the body's elemental balance and weakening the digestive fire. The disorder known as Ama Achin, which was attributed to the consumption of raw food, was described as causing constipation, urinary retention, chest pain, and excessive salivation. The Saroj manuscript recommended emetic therapy using boiled Acorus calamus (Wan Nam) with salt, which corresponded closely with descriptions recorded in Dhatu Banjop, where putrid fish–smelling stools were associated with disturbances of the water element (Apo Samutthan). Although several sections of the Saroj manuscripts resembled those found in Dhatuwivorn, important differences were identified in medicinal formulations and the prescribed duration of fever diseases. Saroj Sangha, Volume 2, agreed with Samutthan Winitchai by assigning disease durations of seven days for Pitta, ten days for Vata, and twelve days for Semha. In contrast, Sarot Kamklon and Dhatuwivorn assigned ten days for Pitta, seven days for Vata, and twelve days for Semha. Furthermore, twenty–eight medicinal formulations differed among the manuscripts. These variations appeared to have resulted from the addition or omission of herbal ingredients or from scribal transmission errors. For example, Dhatuwivorn recorded the phrase "Triphala Mak Pha Ao," whereas Sarot Kamklon recorded "Triphala Maka Ao." Such textual variations altered the composition of the medicinal formula and might have influenced its therapeutic effectiveness.

Conclusion and Recommendation The study and transliteration of the Saroj manuscripts revealed previously undocumented medical knowledge that contributed substantially to Thai Traditional Medicine education, manuscript studies, and clinical practice. Further investigations are warranted for the medicinal formulations that exhibited textual variations. Future studies should examine their formulation structure, therapeutic potential, and the rationale underlying their formulation. In addition, scientific investigations of these formulations, together with the newly identified Pikat Ya, should be undertaken to evaluate their therapeutic efficacy and to strengthen the evidence base supporting the clinical application of Thai Traditional medicinal formulations.

Journal of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Orthosiphon stamineus (Java Tea)

Development of a Personalized Herbal Medicine System Based on Thai Traditional Medicine: A Prototype Framework for Psoriasis Care in Thailand

Contents

Editorial Board

Policy and Ethics

Editor's Note

Monograph of Select Thai Material Medica: YA NUAT MAEO

Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Medicine Volume 3 (Chinese-Thai-English) (1)

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Development and Validation of Orientin and Vitexin Quantification Method in Passiflora foetida L. Leaves by Ultra–High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Development and Validation of Analytical Method for Quantitative Analysis of Rosmarinic Acid from Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. Leaves and Its Finished Products by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography

A Transliteration and Study of The Saroj Sangha, Saroj Songkroh and Sarot Kamklon Manuscript