Research on production process of a supplement targeting diabetes support from the Vong Nem plant (Erythrina variegata L.)

19/05/2025

In Vietnam, Vong nem—also known as la vong or Hai dong bi (Erythrina variegata L.) - is a common plant that thrives nationwide, especially in coastal areas. It is often grown as a fence, ornamental plant, for its edible leaves, or for shade along residential roads. In some central provinces, the leaves are traditionally used to cook soup with freshwater shrimp, believed to aid sleep and reduce heat-related discomfort.

Internationally, many studies have explored the chemical composition and biological activities of various Erythrina variegata L. species. Notable properties include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and tumour-suppressing effects. Particularly, some species have been shown to activate the enzyme AMPK, which plays a role in managing metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. However, in Vietnam, no intellectual property rights have yet been registered for any medicinal products containing Erythrina variegata L. or related to this plant with a focus on diabetes treatment.

In response to practical needs, the research team led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Phi Hung at the Institute of Natural Products Chemistry (now the Institute of Chemistry) has implemented the technology development project titled "Research on the production process of a supplement targeting diabetes support from the Vong Nem plant (Erythrina variegata L.)", code UDPTCN 03/21-23. The project successfully developed an extraction process to produce a semi-finished extract named VN from Erythrina variegata L. material. It also formulated combinations with other medicinal herbs and extracts to produce the semi-finished extracts TD-VN and the supplementary extract BS-VN, along with curcumin essence from turmeric, for use in researching and formulating the TD-VN product in the form of hard capsules.

The research team evaluated the biological activity of the TD-VN supplement in vitro models related to diabetes (inhibition of PTP1B and α-glucosidase enzyme activity, and enhanced glucose uptake in cell models). In acute toxicity testing, TD-VN was shown to be safe for oral use in white mice. At a dose of 350 mg/kg/day, the product demonstrated blood glucose-lowering effects and improved diabetic conditions in white rats with type 2 diabetes induced by a high-fat, high-energy diet combined with low-dose Streptozocin. Specifically, it reduced blood glucose, increased insulin levels, and improved diabetes-related symptoms such as weight loss, excessive food and water intake, and urinary volume. It also enhanced insulin sensitivity indicators and reduced pancreatic damage. These effects were comparable to the antidiabetic drug gliclazide at 20 mg/kg/day.

The team successfully developed a hard capsule formulation using the extracts, with each 500 mg capsule containing over 2% total flavonoids/active ingredients. A total of 2,400 capsules were produced and packaged into 400 bottles (each containing 60 capsules).

Image of TD-VN hard capsules packaged in bottles of 60 capsules

In addition to scientific outcomes, the project resulted in three international articles indexed in SCIE, one Scopus-indexed international article, one Scopus article listed under the VAST1 category, and one prestigious national publication. The project also received one patent and five utility solutions accepted for registration. It supported the training of one Master's student in Organic Chemistry, one PhD candidate in the same field, and supervised four undergraduate theses.

With its success in developing a high-active-ingredient extract and formulating a safe, hypoglycaemic capsule, the project was evaluated as "Excellent" by Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology's acceptance council on March 19, 2024.

Translated by Phuong Huyen
Link to Vietnamese version

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