Claims circulating on social media that herbal medicines can prevent or cure tuberculosis (TB) have raised questions about their role in treating infectious diseases. In response, the Center for Tropical Medicine at UGM featured Dr. rer. nat. Apt. Arko Jatmiko Wicaksono, M.Sc., a researcher at the Center for Herbal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing UGM, in TropmedAsk to answer public questions and clarify the potential benefits, limitations, and safety of herbal medicines. 

One of the main questions addressed whether herbal medicines could replace conventional TB treatment. Dr. Arko explained that although several preclinical studies have shown the potential of certain herbs to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the available scientific evidence remains insufficient to support their use as a primary treatment. Herbal medicines may serve as supportive or immunomodulatory therapies, but patients must continue taking prescribed anti-tuberculosis drugs (Obat Anti Tuberculosis – OAT) under medical supervision. Interrupting or discontinuing treatment without medical guidance can increase the risk of drug resistance, making TB more difficult to treat. 

The discussion also explored the use of natural ingredients as supportive measures in managing other infectious diseases, such as dengue fever. According to Dr. Arko, some studies suggest that guava juice may help increase platelet levels in dengue patients, although it should not be considered a treatment for the dengue virus itself. Another common misconception discussed was the belief that herbal medicines are always safer than conventional drugs. Dr. Arko clarified that both herbal and synthetic medicines contain active compounds and may cause adverse effects when used improperly or excessively. He also warned the public to be cautious of herbal products claiming instant results, as some may contain undeclared pharmaceutical ingredients that could pose health risks.

Through TropmedAsk, the Center for Tropical Medicine at UGM continues to promote evidence-based health information and encourage the public to critically assess  health claims circulating on social media. Understanding the appropriate role of herbal medicines is essential to ensuring their potential benefits are used responsibly without compromising necessary medical treatment.

Please check out the full version of TropmedAsk: Can Herbal Medicine Treat Infectious Diseases? here