PROJECT PROFILE

Project Title: Analysing the Effects of Alpinia Elegans (Tagbak) as treatment for Skin Cancer

Names of Project Proponent/s:

(1) Gamba, Earl Gabriel Salvador

(2) Peril, Jeric Ivan Gamalo

(3) Fama, Jonathan Jr. D.

Region: CARAGA Division: Surigao Del Norte

Project Duration:

School: Mainit National High School (MNHS) Grade Level: 11

Email: Contact Number:

(1) earlgamba12@gmail.com (1) 09382573520

(2) perilivan@gmail.com (2) 09631837729

(3) jonathanfama111@gmail.com (3) 09690307074

CATEGORY OF RESEARCH THEME

_____ Physical Science _____ Food Safety

____ Life Science _____ Water Conservation

_____ Robotics and Intelligent _____ Renewable Energy

SDADADD Machine
_____ Traffic/Road Congestion

_____Mathematics & Computational

____ Health
fuck Sciences
_____ Disaster Mitigation
(A)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
_____ Agriculture and Environment
_____ Individual
Cancer cells are abnormal cells that divide and multiply in an uncontrolled manner,
_____ Others (please specify):
leading to the development
____ Team of tumors or the invasion of nearby tissues. These cells can originate

from different organs or tissues in the body and can affect individuals of any age or gender.
(World Health Organization, 2022)

INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE/SIGNIFICANCE

There are many types of treatment for skin cancer the treatment option depends on

different things, how advanced it is, and where it is on the body. It is the most diagnosed cancer,

and it is also among the more preventable forms of cancer. Although Asians have inherent

photoprotection that reduces their risk, this benefit can be offset by cumulative exposure to

carcinogens like ultraviolet radiation. In the Philippines, more than 34% of Filipinos work

outdoors in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and construction. Miners and quarriers are exposed to

substances such as arsenic and coal. There are only 1275 board-certified dermatologists serving

109 million Filipinos in the Philippines. Over 50% of these dermatologists are concentrated in

the capital, while a region in Southern Philippines has only one dermatologist for every four

million inhabitants. (JADD International, 2022)

 As a result, for many Filipinos, their first point of contact is the community health center,

where misdiagnosis is common due to the relative rarity of cases and lack of experience in

assessing suspicious lesions. Public health campaigns are virtually non-existent, and preventive

skin examinations are rarely offered. With decentralized health services, inadequate early

detection methods, and fragmented referral systems, many Filipinos pass away without ever

being examined by a skin care physician. Filipinos often present with advanced stages of the

disease, characterized by infiltrative growth into the bones and even metastasis. What could

have been treated through simple excision becomes complicated by the need for specialized

imaging, adjuvant radiotherapy/chemotherapy, and complex reconstruction procedures, which

are not readily available in provincial areas. (Nicole et al., 2022)

Alpinia Elegans or “Tagbak” is an indigenous species exclusive to the Philippines, found

in several provinces including Apayao, Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya,

etc. It thrives in diverse habitats (Zingiberaceae Resource Centre, 2019). Locally, this species is

referred to as “Tagbak” in Mainit, Surigao Del Norte. As a lofty herb, it primarily grows in

forested areas. Its rhizomes possess fibrous characteristics, and some are cultivated for

ornamental purposes. The fruit is edible, and the seed oil possesses a distinct aroma. Alpinia

elegans is employed in the treatment of musculoskeletal ailments (Blasco et al., 2014). The juice

extracted from macerated young stems is used to alleviate urticaria, while pounded leaves mixed

with a pinch of salt are applied to paralyzed extremities.

Furthermore, a decoction of the rhizomes is utilized for managing hemoptysis (Stuart,

2018). Traditionally, the local inhabitants of Antique employ Alpinia elegans to address

headaches, migraines, stomach aches, and as an anti-relapse measure for women (Dalisay et al.,

2018). Despite its documented ethnomedicinal uses, a comprehensive analysis of the

phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extracts derived from the

leaves of Alpinia elegans remains unpublished to date.

 For now, there is no single medicine that can definitively cure all types of skin cancer.

However, there are various treatment options, but the treatments can have side effects and as

well as being expensive. We will be reaching to Philippine Cancer Society, Philippine Health

Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Department of Health (DOH) we hope that they would

help us on this study make it successful and guide us on the proper procedures when it comes

to medical field of their expertise. At the same financially supporting us for this study.

This study, once taken into ample consideration, provides an innovative commodity that

helps resist or possibly cure skin cancer without causing any side effects to the consumer and

make it more comfortable to use. Sustainable Development Goal 3 of the 2030 Agenda for

Sustainable Development aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all

ages. Health and Sustainable Development were also crucial aspects of the World Summit on

Sustainable Development, which this study correlates also one of the reasons why we

conducted this research.

SCIENTIFIC BASIS

Ginger a close relative of Alpinia elegans, has been investigated for its anti-cancer

properties. As cited in the study of Ranjani, Assistant Professor, Department of Virology in

India, Ginger contains various bioactive compounds, including gingerols, shogaols, and

paradols, which have demonstrated potential anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies. These

compounds have been found to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor

properties, which may contribute to their ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce

apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer types.

It's important to note that while ginger and its constituents show promise in laboratory

studies, further research is needed to determine their effectiveness and safety in human clinical

trials. Moreover, it's unclear whether the same anti-cancer properties observed in ginger would

apply directly to Alpinia elegans or its specific compounds. That’s why we will first experiment

it to animals that have skin cancer like dogs, cats, pigs, and horse so that we can observe its

effect.
OBJECTIVES
The study generally will aim to utilize Alpinia Elegans Oil extract and process it into a lotion,

evaluate the effects on skin cancer of animals and humans.

Specifically, it aims to:

1. To evaluate the potential of Alpinia Elegans as an antineoplastic agent specifically for

non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer.

2. To explore the efficacy and safety of Alpinia Elegans as a natural alternative to

traditional chemotherapy treatment and assess the potential benefits and limitations of

using natural compounds in the treatment of these types of cancer.

3. To identify the specific bioactive compounds, present in Alpinia Elegans responsible

for its antineoplastic properties and investigate their mechanisms of action in cancer

cells associated with these specific types of cancer.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Alpinia elegans is an herbaceous plant that typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 meters

(3 to 6 feet). It features erect stems adorned with glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are deep

green in color. The leaves can grow up to lengths of approximately 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to

24 inches) (Mark en al., 2019). Alpinia elegans thrives in warm, tropical climates and prefers

partial shade or full sun. It requires well-draining soil that is consistently moist to grow and

bloom successfully. While it is generally considered a low-maintenance plant, occasional

fertilization can promote healthier growth. Alpinia elegans is a medicinal plant with known

folkloric uses such as rhizome decoction for hemoptysis, pounded leaves mixed with little salt

for paralyzed extremities, and juice from macerated young stems for urticaria. In addition to

its ornamental value, Alpinia elegans has culinary and medicinal applications in certain

regions. In certain Asian cuisines, the young shoots and rhizomes of the plant are consumed,

adding a subtle ginger flavor to dishes. Traditional medicine employs various parts of the plant

to address digestive issues and other ailments.

 As citied in the study of Ryan and Paul (2021), this study demonstrates that the

ethanol-based extract of Alpinia elegans leaves can significantly impede the growth and

movement of cells. However, this effect is observed only at high concentrations, and there is a

direct relationship between the concentration and the response. Furthermore, the study reveals

that the extract exhibits characteristics of both apoptosis and necrosis, which are mechanisms

behind its cytotoxic (cell-killing) activity at high concentrations. To confirm that this

cytotoxic activity specifically targets cancer cells, it is recommended to isolate the bioactive

compounds present in the leaf extract and investigate their effects on other cancer-related

indicators such as angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).

Marketa et al (2017) in their study, it has been confirmed that the presence of vapor

can lead to false-positive results in bioassays conducted using nonsealed microtiter plates. The

arrangement of the plates and the duration of the assay were identified as critical factors that

determine the extent to which the results are affected by the vapors of volatile substances. In

some instances, when the plates were sealed, no antimicrobial activity was detected. However,

when the plates were left unsealed, a certain inhibitory effect on growth was observed. Similar

differences were also noted in the cytotoxicity assay, where the results varied significantly

between sealed and nonsealed plates. Additionally, we provided information on the biological

activities and chemical composition of essential oils derived from the seeds of A. elegans and

the leaves of X. verdugonianus. It is worth noting that these oils were analyzed for the first

time, to the best of our knowledge.

 As citied in the study of researchers from University of Antique (2019), the study stated

that the ethanol extract of Alpinia elegans leaves exhibited antioxidant activity that was twenty

times weaker than standard ascorbic acid (vitamin C). This finding aligns with previous studies

conducted on four medicinal plants in the Philippines: Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. bark, Intsia

bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze, Laportea meyeniana (Walp.) Warb., and Pipturus arborescens (Link)

C.B.Rob. leaves (Peteros & Uy, 2010). Similarly, ethanol extracts from the Philippine's

endemic Zingiberaceae species, namely Amomum muricarpum Elmer, Etlingera philippinensis

(Ridl.) R.M.Sm., and Hornstedtia conoidea Ridl., exhibited a comparably low level of

antioxidant activity compared to L-ascorbic acid (Barbosa et al., 2016). It is expected that the

plant extracts generally have lower activity when compared to the standard L-ascorbic acid

(Peteros & Uy, 2010)."

The global burden of cancer is estimated to have risen to 18.1 million new cases and 9.6

million deaths in 2018, with 48.4% of the new cases and 57.1% of cancer-related deaths

coming from Asia (International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2018). In the Philippines,

cancer is the third leading cause of mortality, with lung, liver, and colorectal cancer among the

most diagnosed and the leading cause of deaths due to cancer (Laudico et al., 2015). Cancer

cells start to form when genes, made up of DNA, experience certain changes (mutations) that

cause the cells to behave abnormally. These changes may be inherited or caused by external

factors, like smoking or exposure to ultraviolet rays. Mutations can also be completely random.

(Lynne, 2023)
METHODOLOGY

This study will use an experimental design to assess the effectiveness of Alpinia Elegans

as skin cancer treatment. We will also test its inflammation and anti-bacterial properties against

bacteria and fungi. The experiment will also include properties of the seeds and other parts of

the plant. This study will be conducted in a pathological laboratory if possible.

There are various methods involved in extracting oil from plant leaves, such as steam

distillation, cold pressing, and supercritical fluid extraction. These techniques differ in their

application and the properties of the extracted oil. Steam distillation is commonly used for

obtaining essential oils. Cold pressing helps preserve the natural properties of the oil.

Supercritical fluid extraction utilizes CO2 as a solvent. Each method has its own advantages

and is selected based on the specific requirements of the oil extraction process.

The working principle of steam distillation revolves around the concept of boiling

points. Different compounds have different boiling points. By using steam as a carrier, we can

extract the volatile compounds without subjecting them to direct heat, which could degrade

their quality.

The cold pressing method operates based on the application of mechanical force to the

raw materials. This pressure causes the seeds or nuts' cellular structure to break down, enabling

the release of oil. The absence of heat during the process aids in preserving the oil's natural

flavors, colors, and nutritional properties.

The working principle of supercritical fluid extraction is based on the unique properties

of supercritical fluids. When a fluid is at or above its critical temperature and pressure, it enters

a supercritical state. In this state, the fluid exhibits properties of both a gas and a liquid,

including high diffusivity, low viscosity, and high solvating power. These characteristics allow

supercritical fluids to efficiently penetrate solid materials and dissolve target compounds,

making them excellent solvents for extraction.

EXPECTED OUTPUT AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS

We expect that Alpinia Elegans leaves oil extract is more effective than the

commonly treatment currently we have now. Also, have a lower risk of harming the health of

the user.  It will help all the people that have this disease or even prevent them from having

skin cancer. Expecting that you only need to take up a small amount of it and show the

positive effects in a short amount of time.

Social Impact

This study can reduce morbidity because skin cancer, can cause significant morbidity,

including pain, discomfort, disfigurement, and functional impairments. A cure or treatment

that can minimize the effect would alleviate these burdens, improving the quality of life for

individuals affected by the disease and allowing them to lead healthier and more fulfilling

lives.

This study can impact would give a significant improvement in survival rates for

individuals diagnosed with skin cancer. A cure or treatment that can give positive effects

would provide effective treatment options that can eradicate or control the cancer cells,

leading to better outcomes and increased chances of long-term survival.

Economic Impact

This study can impact the public health, Skin cancer is one of the most common types

of cancer globally, and its incidence is increasing. It would have a significant public health

impact by reducing the overall burden of the disease on populations. It would lead to a

decrease in healthcare costs, improve healthcare resource allocation, and contribute to the

overall well-being and productivity of communities.

 This study could possibly give the economy some relief, skin cancer places a

substantial economic burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. The costs

associated with diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, and rehabilitation can be substantial. A

cure would reduce the financial burden on patients and healthcare systems, freeing up

resources for other healthcare needs and potentially leading to more cost-effective and

sustainable healthcare practices.

WORK PLAN AND TARGET DELIVERABLES

Timeframe Activities Expected Outputs

Identification of the Problem/
Topic to be Studied Research Problem and
Week 1
Objectives
Formulating Research Objectives
Weeks 2-3 Literature Search Review of Related Literature
Week 4 Designing Research Methodology Research Methodologies
Week 5 Writing of Research Proposal Manuscript

Obtaining Legal Permits Legal Permits for Conduct of

Weeks 6-8
Experimentation

Gathering of Resources and Acquired Resources for Conduct

Weeks 9-10
Materials of Experimentation

Extracting of oil from leaves

Weeks 11-12 Alpinia Elegans Leaf Oil Extract

Set-up Ready for

Week 13 Preparation of Experimental Set-up
Experimentation
Week 14 Acclimatization of Animals
Raw Data and Observation Notes
Experimentation
Weeks 15-18
Data Collection and Observation
Analysis of Data and Statistics Statistical Results
Week 19-20 Discussion and Interpretation of
Results and Discussion
Results
Proofread and Revised
Weeks 21-23 Proofreading and Revisions
Research Paper
Weeks 24-25 Writing the Final Research Paper Final Research Paper
REFERENCES (Need More References)

Albarico, G., Urbanová, K., Houdkova, M., Bande, M., Tulin, E., & Kokoška, L. PP-2.

Chemical composition of essential oils from native plants of Philippines. BİLDİRİ

ÖZETLERİ KİTABI, 48.

Calumpang, S. M. F., Burgonio, G. A. S., Navasero, M. M., & Navasero, M. V. (2013).

Behavioral and olfactory responses of rice green leaf hopper, Nephottetix virescens

(Distant) to volatile cues from tagbak (Alpinia elegans (C. Presl) K.

Schum). Philippine Journal of Science, 142(2), 167-173

Houdkova, M., Albarico, G., Doskocil, I., Tauchen, J., Urbanova, K., Tulin, E. E., &

Kokoska, L. (2020). Vapors of volatile plant-derived products significantly affect the

results of antimicrobial, antioxidative and cytotoxicity microplate-based

assays. Molecules, 25(24), 6004.

Lintao, R. C., & Medina, P. M. B. (2021). Screening for Anticancer Activity of Leaf

Ethanolic Extract of Alpinia elegans (“tagbak”) on Human Cancer Cell Lines. Asian

Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention: APJCP, 22(12), 3781.

Lintao, R. C., & Medina, P. M. B. (2021). Screening for Anticancer Activity of Leaf

Ethanolic Extract of Alpinia elegans (“tagbak”) on Human Cancer Cell Lines. Asian

Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention: APJCP, 22(12), 3781..

Naive, M. A. K., Dalisay, J. A. G. P., Maglangit, E. P. T., Cafe, G. C., & Nuneza, O. (2019).

Free radical scavenging effects of the Philippine endemic medicinal plant Alpinia

elegans (Zingiberaceae). Gard Bull (Singapore), 71(2), 435-444.

Theoretical Framework

Ingredient

Steam Super Critical Cold Pressing

Distillation Fluid

Compare and
Analyze

Apply

Result A Result B Result C

We will try 3 different methods on extracting the oil from the ingredient and the

result will be compared to each then applying it to the animals. Then decide which of the

methods have better and effective way on extracting the properties from the ingredient based

on the result they have given.