Scientists tested the effectiveness of a traditional herbal remedy known as “Holy Tea” or “Chaotera,” which has been used by the peoples of Southeast Asia for centuries to treat wounds, inflammation, and infections.
Researchers from the University of Naypyidaw (Myanmar) and the Institute of Molecular Biology in Salzburg (Austria) isolated four key bioactive compounds from this plant: artemisinin (known for its use against malaria), aucubin, geniposide, and phenylpropanoid glycosides. Laboratory tests in vitro and in vivo on model organisms showed that the combination of these compounds has a pronounced synergistic effect, significantly surpassing the action of each component individually.
The strongest results were recorded regarding anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, which aligns well with the traditional use of the plant for wound healing.
This discovery serves as an example of how modern science can validate centuries-old empirical experience by revealing the molecular mechanisms of action of complex herbal preparations and paving the way for the development of new drugs based on them, potentially combining high efficacy with fewer side effects compared to synthetic counterparts.
