Tsaang Gubat For Digestion

Uses

Tsaang Gubat, with the scientific name of Ehretia microphylla Lam, is a popular shrub in the Philippines. It is a well-known medicinal plant and has been widely used even before it was formally recognized by the Department of Health for its numerous medicinal benefits.

In traditional medicine, Tsaang Gubat is used as a tea to promote overall health. Additionally, it is used as a disinfectant during childbirth and as a gargle to prevent tooth decay.

To date, Tsaang Gubat is registered under the Bureau of Food and Drugs Administration as an effective herbal medicine.

How does it work?

Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits focus on improving the digestive system. Here are its specific uses. 

Tsaang Gubat aids in relieving stomach pains

Often, the cause of stomach pain is the spasming of stomach muscles. Spasms are muscular contractions; wherein your muscles are being painfully “squeezed.” Tsaang Gubat has antispasmodic properties, so when you take it, the spasms will stop significantly reducing the pain.

It can help treat gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as “stomach flu,” usually occurs when you eat contaminated food. It is characterized by an inflamed stomach or intestines. One of the Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits is its anti-inflammatory property. Taking Tsaang Gubat will reduce the inflammation and relieve symptoms. 

Tsaang Gubat relieves diseases, such as diarrhea and dysentery

Diarrhea and dysentery (infection in the intestine) often manifest in unhealthy gastrointestinal movement, spasms, or motility. Tsaang Gubat has antispasmodic properties that will help stop irregular gastrointestinal movement.

Tsaang Gubat also has antibacterial properties thanks to its ethanol content. If the cause of your diarrhea is bacterial, Tsaang Gubat will help treat the microbial cause.

It can be used as a mouthwash

One of the most regarded Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits is its fluoride content. In one study, students drank one cup of Tsaang Gubat daily for more than a year, and found that tooth decay was prevented. In the Philippines, Tsaang Gubat is also widely used as a mouthwash.

It can be an effective body and wound cleanser

The antibacterial property of Tsaang Gubat makes it a good body and wound cleanser. Not only does it clean the wound, it also promotes wound healing. One study even discovered that it effectively reduces the healing time of a wound.

Tsaang Gubat is a good alternative to anti-allergy medications

One of Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits is also its anti-allergy properties. In a study that compared the effect of loratadine and Tsaang Gubat in addressing allergic rhinitis, the latter proved to be just as effective.

The conclusion even stated that Tsaang Gubat can be taken as an alternative to loratadine, which is an established commercial drug. If switching medication, it is best to consult your doctor.

Precautions & warnings

As  promising as Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits seem to be, to use it safely and effectively, you need to consider the following.    

While it is rare, you can develop allergic reactions when you apply Tsaang Gubat externally, such as when you use it as a cleanser for wounds.

Like the case of another medicinal plant, Sambong, there are no studies to ascertain Tsaang Gubat’s safety when ingested by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

How safe is this herbal medicine?

Tsaang gubat is generally safe when taken in recommended doses. Best to consult your doctor. 

Special precautions & warnings

To avoid the occurrence of allergic reactions, try to perform a quick skin test on the inside of your wrist or elbow.

Since the safety of using tsaang gubat for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers is not yet determined, it is best to avoid tsaang gubat.

Side Effects and Interactions

While Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits are well promoted, not much is known about its side effects and interactions. It is best to be cautious, especially if you are following a special diet or are taking  other medications.

Interactions

What interactions may I have with this herbal medicine?

Although Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits have not yet been fully studied or used for commercial production,

The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development has reported that a model patent has been granted and that proponents are looking for pharmaceutical companies to produce Tsaang Gubat tablets. 

Dosage

The following forms and dosages are applicable. A little reminder: the suggestions below should not be prioritized over your physician’s advice.

Commercialized Tsaang Gubat tea bags

These are available for the improvement of general health. The advised preparation is to infuse the tea in a cup of hot water for 1 to 2 minutes. Drink 1 cup of tea a day.

Fresh Tsaang Gubat tea leaves

To prepare your tea, wash the Tsaang Gubat leaves with water. Chop the leaves until you have a cup of it. Boil the leaves in 2 cups of water over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes.

What is the usual dose for Tsaang Gubat?

You may use the tea as a mouthwash once cooled. For diarrhea, drink 1 cup of tea every 4 hours. To improve general health, drink 1 cup of your prepared tea per day.

What form does Tsaang Gubat come in?

Tsaang Gubat can be eaten raw and fresh in salads, or its dried leaves may be steeped in hot water for tea. 

Conclusion

Tsaang Gubat herbal medicine benefits are widely known, with the tea deemed relatively safe and effective in treating several ailments. More research, however, is needed to understand its wide-ranging benefits.

Learn more about Herbal Medicine here.