CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

As a country that experiences the tropical season, the Philippines during the

summer tend to be a hot country to live in, which may not be a big deal due to the fact

that this season is best enjoyed with the beaches all over the archipelago. However, for

people with asthma, summer season may be hard to live through as it triggers asthma

attack because of the heat.

According to the United Nation Daily Highlights, asthma kills over 180,000 people

worldwide annually. In the Philippines, asthma affects over six (6) million children. The

Philippines is ranked 32nd in "self-reported asthma," The country has a prevalence rate

of about 12 %. A nationwide study conducted by the University of Santo Tomas showed

that about 12.4% of children aged 14 to 15 years old are afflicted with asthma. Most of

these children come from low-income families or communities. Over all, one out of 10

Filipinos has asthma, based on a Philippine General Hospital survey.

With that, the researcher came up with the idea to analyze various plants that grow

locally to serve as an alternative in aiding asthma, particularly the Makahiya, scientific

name Mimosa pudica.

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 A common sight in Philippine grasslands, the Makahiya plant (Mimosa pudica) is

famous for its tendency to curl up its leaves at the slightest touch, as if it were extremely

embarrassed about physical contact, hence its name: "makahiya" is derived from the

Filipino word for "shame" or "shyness" ("hiya").

The Makahiya plant also contains medicinal properties that could cure ailments,

and its roots are often used as diuretic; also used for dysentery and dysmenorrhea, roots

are also considered aphrodisiac, and used for bladder gravel and similar urinary

complaints.

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 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Makahiya (Mimosa Pudica) Phytochemical screening:

Saponin test

Tannin test

Cardiac Glycoside test

Flavonoid test

Alkaloid test

Steroid test

Table 1

The conceptual framework evaluates their relationship between the variables in

the research study, namely; the acceptability of Makahiya as anti-asthmatic, the benefits

of the study and its advantages to mankind.

The table shows the independent and dependent variable. Independent Variable

use of Makahiya plant. Dependent Variable in terms of Alkaloid test (Mayer’s solution and

Dragendorff’s Reagent test), Steroid Test, Saponin test, Tannin test, Flavonoid test and

Cardiac Glycoside Test (Keller-Kaliant test).

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 RESEARCH PARADIGM

Input Process Output

Mimosa pudica Extraction of Mimosa Phytochemical

Figure 1

The research paradigm shows the process of the phytochemical screening of the Mimosa

pudica plant. It starts with the gathered parts such as leaves and stems as input. While

the process shows the extraction of the aforementioned parts of the studying of the

extractions that are yet to be screened. After screening, the result will be screened

analyses of each individual part which will be the output.

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STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The study will answer the following questions.

1. How effective would be the Makahiya as an anti-asthma?

2. What is / are the phytochemical component/s of Makahiya that can be used as

anti-asthma?

3. Will the product of this study become an efficient alternative for anti-asthma?

Assumptions

The researcher assumed that this research study entitled “Phytochemical Analysis

of Makahiya (Mimosa pudica) for its Anti-Asthmatic Properties” will be beneficial as an

alternative for sudden asthma attacks, especially in the remote areas where

manufactured medicines may be inaccessible.

Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis: The researcher hypothesized that the Makahiya (Mimosa

pudica) contains the essential phytochemicals that will serve as an anti-asthma.

Alternative Hypothesis: The researcher hypothesized that the Makahiya

(Mimosa pudica) does not contains the essential phytochemicals that will serve as an

anti-asthma.

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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The Researchers

In contribution of information taken from this research may be used to communities

and allow them to determine how it may be used.

Future Researchers

This research may be used as a reference to future researchers for topics

connected to the said research. And to serve as a guide for their future experimentation

and to provide them the facts that they need to their study.

HTU Community

This study can aid the students and personnel of the HTU Community and to know

this plant’s functions, where it grows and its benefits to people.

Community

The goal of this research is to raise awareness to people that could bring great

help: This plant can be found almost everywhere.

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 SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

In terms of the subject matter, the scope and limits of the study are considered like

the following:

Problem

The research focused on the Phytochemical Analysis of Makahiya (Mimosa

pudica) for its Anti-Asthmatic Properties.

Locale

This research was conducted at Holy Trinity University, Quezon st., Brgy.

Maligaya, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

Time Frame

This research study was conducted from February to December 2022.

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DEFINITION OF TERMS

Alkaloid - Any of a class of naturally occurring organic nitrogen-containing bases.

Asthma - is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra

mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound

(wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.

Anti-asthmatic - relieving or counteracting the symptoms of asthma.

Cardiac Glycoside - medicines for treating heart failure and certain irregular heartbeats.

Flavonoid - any of a large class of plant pigments having a structure based on or similar

to that of flavone.

Makahiya (Mimosa pudica) - is a creeping annual or perennial herb of the pea family

Fabaceae often grown for its curiosity value: the compound leaves fold inward and droop

when touched or shaken, defending themselves from harm, and re-open a few minutes

later.

Saponin - also selectively referred to as triterpene glycosides, are bitter-tasting usually

toxic plant-derived organic chemicals that have a foamy quality when agitated in water.

Steroid - any of a large class of organic compounds with a characteristic molecular

structure containing four rings of carbon atoms (three six-membered and one five).

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 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter presents the relevant literature and studies that the researchers

considered in strengthening the claim and importance of the current study.

Foreign Literature

Carl Linnaeus (Swedish botanist and father of modern taxonomy, 1707-1778)

described Mimosa pudica to be widely used in traditional medicine. and is the type

species for the genus. Pulped leaves are used in India on glandular swellings and in the

Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) the entire plant is pulped and rubbed onto

people suffering pains in their body sides and kidneys. Root extracts have shown anti-

bacterial action, and along with the seeds are purgative and emetic. However, high doses

can be toxic. There are reports that the roots can be used as an aphrodisiac. Green parts

of the plant are used as an analgesic, antispasmodic, anti-asthmatic, a mild sedative and

anti-depressant. Despite its wide use in traditional medicine, M. pudica is not yet used in

Western medicine, as pharmaceutical companies are still researching its reported

properties and potential uses.

The researchers abstract explained that the Makahiya plant majorly possesses

antibacterial, antivenom, antifertility, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, and

various other pharmacological activities. It has been identified as lajjalu in Ayurveda and

has been found to have anti-asthmatic, aphrodisiac, analgesic, and antidepressant

9
properties. The macroscopy of the plant also gave more details about the physical

structure of the plant.

The plant is a spiky subshrub that grows to around 30 cm in height (1 foot). It

features little globular pink or mauve flower puffs and complex leaves. Rapid water

release from specialized cells found at the bases of leaflets and leaf stalks accounts for

the plant's extraordinarily speedy sensitivity to touch. The leaves reopen in several

minutes, and it is thought that this adaptation is a defense against browsing herbivores

who may be startled by the movement. In addition to its response to physical stimuli, the

leaves also droop in response to darkness and reopen with daylight, a phenomenon

known as nyctinastic movement.

Local Literature

The Makahiya Plant is a very interesting species of plant found in the Philippines.

Because of its distinct qualities, it has a range of nicknames. Its scientific name is Mimosa

pudica but others call it the sensitive plant or the” touch me not”. The Makahiya plant is a

perennial herb. It has compound leaves that sticks together and closes in whenever it is

touched or when it is shaken. Afterwards it takes a few minutes for it to unfold its leaves.

Sensitive plant grows on most well- drained soils, even scalped or eroded subsoils

and soils with low nutrient concentrations. In the Philippines, sensitive plant flowers all

year and may produce as many as 675 seeds per plant per year (Holm and others 1977).

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It has been stated that the entire plant in decoction is considered as an alterant and

antiasthmatic.

The blogger stated that Makahiya is native to the Philippines and can be seen

growing wild on Mt. Banahaw. It is called a weed because it is not farmed. The Tagalog

name, and suggested by the scientific name, means “sensitive.”

The blogger stated that Makahiya is native to the Philippines and can be seen

growing wild on Mt. Banahaw. It is called a weed because it is not farmed. The Tagalog

name, and suggested by the scientific name, means “sensitive.”

The name comes from the fact that when the leaves are touched, they contract

and look to wilt, but then open up again a short time later. Makahiya is known as a diuretic

and is considered alterant and anti-asthmatic. It is used for urinary complaints and is

useful in diseases arising from corrupt blood and bile.

Foreign Study

In this study, the researchers concluded that all parts of the tree are considered

to possess medicinal properties and used in the treatment of wounds [13] bleeding, piles,

diarrhea [11] biliousness, leprosy, dysentery, vaginal and uterine complaints [21],

inflammations, burning sensation, fatigue, asthma, leukoderma, blood diseases.

According to the Ayurveda, the root is bitter, acrid, cooling, vulnerary, ale,

alexipharmic and used in the treatment of biliousness, leprosy, dysentery, vagina and

uterine complaints, inflammations, burning sensation, fatigue, asthma, blood pressure

and etc. Its leaves are useful in hydrocele, haemorrhoids, fistulous withers, scrofula,

pinkeye, cuts and bleeds and Mimosa pudica whole plant is a reach source as anti-

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diabetic, antitoxin, anti-hepatotoxin, antioxidant, anthelminthic, antipyretic,

antispasmodic, calmative and anti-inflammatory properties (Muhammad et al., 2016),

(Patro, Bhattamisra and Mohanty, 2016).

Local Study

In these articles, Racadio, Susan conducted a study of the plant extract and was

subjected to phytochemical analysis, which then resulted that Alkaloids have a wide range

of pharmacological activities including antimalarial, antiasthma, anticancer, antibacterial

and antihyperglycemic activities (https:/en.wikipedia.org/wi ki/Alkaloid). The presence of

alkaloids in the plant extract indicates that the plant has a pharmaceutical potential for the

treatment of malaria, asthma, cancer and even diabetes.

Dr. Agustin-Bunch stated in the article that when it comes to asthma treatment, the

makahiya plant can help by clearing the airway path of any allergens, dust, and

inflammation thereby providing relief from its symptoms. Simply prepare 15 ml of juice

extracted from the plant. This proves that Makahiya plant is an effective alternative for an

asthma treatment.

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 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter shows the research methodology which is composed of research

design, instrumentation and procedure.

RESEARCH DESIGN

This research entitled “Phytochemical Analysis of Makahiya (Mimosa pudica) for

Anti-Asthmatic Properties” utilized experimental design wherein any information is

gathered and tested in the laboratory. The researchers were concerned with the analysis

and data generated from Makahiya.

Instrumentation

Collection and Preparation of Materials.

 Makahiya Extracts

 Beeswax

 Essential oils

 Water

 Water bath

 Spatula

 Stirrer

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  Glass container/ beaker

 Product Clean Container

MATERIALS NEEDED IN PHYTOCHEMICAL TESTING

 Ethanol

 Test tube

 Test tube rack

 Medicine dropper

 Tongs

 Beaker

 Graduated cylinder

 Flask

 Stirring rod

 Hot plate

 Laboratory heater

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Other materials

 Distiller water

 Gauze pad

 Sterilized Jar

 Paper tape

 Marker

 Gloves

 Facemask

 Laboratory gown

 Goggles

PROCEDURE

A. Preparation and extraction of Makahiya

The process starts with the gathering of the selected samples from the plant, the

researchers will then cut the plant into pieces and categorize them by: stem, leaves, and

roots. Then will leave it for air drying. The prepared plant materials will go through the

extraction process, which will consist of concentrating the plant materials in a solution of

95% ethanol until the extract is obtained. The varying extracts from the different parts or

15
Samples are labeled and prepared for phytochemical screening. The extracts will undergo

series of tests to determine whether if they are positive with the following phytochemicals:

alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins.

B. Phytochemical Screening of the Plant Extracts

Alkaloid Test – 2 ml of filtrate was added to one drop of 1% HCI then steamed it for 15

minutes, after which they are divided 1% each solution into two test tubes, than in one of

the two, added 6 drops of Dragendorff’s Reagent Test and in the other, 6 drops of Mayer’s

solution. Creamy precipitation/ brownish red/orange precipitate will indicate the presence

of alkaloid.

Steroid Test – 2 ml of filtrate was mixed with 2 ml acetic anhydride the concentrated to

sulfuric acid (H4SO4). A ring formation with the color blue green indicates the presence

of steroids.

Flavonoid Test – a 2 ml filtrate was added to concentrate of HCI plus Magnesium

Turnings / ribbon. A formation of pink tomato red color will indicate the presence of

flavonoids.

Saponin Test – 5 ml filtrate was added with 5 ml distilled water, shaken for about 30

seconds, after which if at least 2 inches of “honey combed” froth is formed and stay for

10 minutes the test subject is positive for saponin.

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Tannin Test – The two (2) millimeters of the filtrate will be added by two (2) millimeters

of FeCl3, blue-black precipitate indicates the presence of Tannins.

Cardiac Glycoside Test - one (1) millimeters of glacial acetic acid, one (1) millimeter of

FeCl3 and one (1) millimeter of concentrated sulfuric acid (H2So4). Green blue indicates

the presence of cardiac glycoside.

PROCESS IN MAKING OINTMENT

1. Prepare the necessary materials.

2. In a glass container, put the makahiya extract and follow the beeswax

3. Put the container in a water bath and gently stir it until it melts and boils.

4. After the beeswax melts, add the essential oil of choice and mix well.

5. Remove the container from the water bath and place the mixed ingredients in a

product glass container.

6. Once it is completely solid you can now present and use the finished ointment

product.

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 CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal Information

Name: Marc James G. Ropero

Birthday: November 26, 2004

Age:17

Address: Port Barton San Vicente, Palawan

Parents Information

Father’s Name: Jay Ropero

Occupation: Self employed

Mother’s Name: Mary Jane Ropero

Occupation: Self employed

Educational Background

Primary: Port Barton Elementary School

Elementary: Port Barton Elementary School

Secondary: Port Barton National Highschool

Senior High School: Holy Trinity University

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 CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal Information

Name: Ramon Giancarlo A. Rocamora

Birthday: January 7, 2005

Age:17

Address: 40-A Libis Rd. Brgy. San Pedro, Puerto Princesa City

Parents Information

Father’s Name: Niño Agustin C. Rocamora Jr.

Occupation: Private Employee

Mother’s Name: Jasmin A. Rocamora

Occupation: Government Employee

Educational Background

Primary: Holy Trinity University

Elementary: Holy Trinity University

Secondary: Holy Trinity University

Senior High School: Holy Trinity University

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 CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal Information

Name: Gabriel D. Arevalo

Birthday: August 10, 2004

Age: 18

Address: 302-B Malvar st. Brgy. San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City

Parents Information

Father’s Name: Jhune Melernee R. Arevalo

Occupation: OFW

Mother’s Name: Gina L. Dela Cruz

Occupation: Private Employee

Educational Background

Primary: Palawan Adventist School

Elementary: Holy Trinity University

Secondary: Holy Trinity University

Senior High School: Holy Trinity University

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 CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal Information

Name: Carmela Lorraine C. Cantuba

Birthday: August 6, 2004

Age: 18

Address: Manalo Extension, Heredero rd. Brgy. Milagrosa, Puerto Princesa City

Parents Information

Father’s Name: Mateo A. Cantuba

Occupation: Government Employee

Mother’s Name: Lemma Martha C. Cantuba

Occupation: Self Employed

Educational Background

Primary: Schola Angelica Learning Center

Elementary: El Nido Central School

Secondary: Holy Trinity University

Senior High School: Holy trinity university

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 CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal Information

Name: Andrei Nicole D. Taladtad

Birthday: July 7, 2005

Age: 17

Address: Quezon, Palawan

Parents Information

Father’s Name: Roger Taladtad

Occupation: Businessman

Mother’s Name: Riza Diones

Occupation: Government Employee

Educational Background

Primary: Immaculate Conception Parochial School

Elementary: Immaculate Conception Parochial School

Secondary: Holy Trinity University

Senior High School: Holy Trinity University

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