Development of Herbal Product Prototypes for Chemical Allergic Rash Symptoms

Abstract

This mixed-methods research aimed to develop a prototype herbal product for relieving chemical allergic rash symptoms. The method was to study and collect information on herbal plants with detoxifying or antidote properties from Thai traditional medicine textbooks. This was followed by a focus group discussion with key informants, including: (1) 15 Thai traditional medicine (TTM) doctors, TTM lecturers, and medical science lecturers from School of Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Chiangrai Rajabhat University; and (2) 5 TTM doctors and village health volunteers in Boonruang Sub-district, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province. The purpose was held to select three types of herbs that were easily available and could be cultivated locally in Chiang Rai Province: Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl., Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl. and Ipomoea aquatica Forsk. The phytochemical and antioxidant properties of the herbal extracts were tested. It was found that all three herbs contained alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, except for saponins, which were found in the Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl., and Ipomoea aquatica Forsk, but not in the Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl. Then antioxidant activity of each herbs was determined by DPPH assay. It was found that the Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl. showed the best antioxidant activity, followed by Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl. and Ipomoea aquatica Forsk., with IC50 values of 0.63±0.06, 1.09±0.05 and 1.99±0.03 mg/ml, respectively which statistically significant (p<0.05). The prototype product was then developed into a concentrated extract for soaking feet. The results of the physical properties test of the product showed that the color of the product was light brown to dark brown, with a unique smell of each herb, and a pH between 5.60-6.75, which is slightly acidic, similar to normal skin. The research results can be used as supporting information for the use of herbal plants to relieve allergic reactions to chemicals according to the principles of Thai traditional medicine, in order to create alternatives self health care for the public using herbs and to increase the value of Thai herbs for local communities.