Public warned vs using upo as cancer treatment

MANILA, Philippines — The public has been warned against using calabash, commonly known as upo, to treat cancer and other serious diseases.

The warning was issued by the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC), a government-owned and controlled corporation attached to the Department of Health (DOH), following reports that some people are using calabash or bottle gourd as an alternative treatment for cancer, gout, arthritis, diabetes and hypertension.

“Everyone is reminded to use herbal and folk remedies responsibly, including calabash, also called the ‘miracle fruit,’ ” PITAHC said in an advisory. “While some local and international studies suggest calabash may have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, diuretic and antioxidant properties, there is no conclusive clinical evidence showing it can cure cancer or other serious illnesses.”

It said most studies conducted on calabash are preclinical.

“Existing studies have mainly been done in laboratories or on animals. More clinical trials involving human participants are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness,” PITAHC said.