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Chapter 1

Background of the Study

Rationale
Turmeric, scientifically identified as Curcuma longa, stands as a prominent herb

renowned for its numerous medicinal attributes, most notably its active ingredient, curcumin.

This compound has been acclaimed for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,

rendering turmeric an increasingly favored choice for individuals seeking natural remedies to

enhance their well-being.

Among the diverse forms of turmeric consumption, turmeric tea has emerged as a

popular method to harness the health benefits of this remarkable spice. Nevertheless, in our

contemporary, fast-paced lifestyles, the process of preparing traditional turmeric tea from

powdered form can be time-consuming and cumbersome, deterring many from integrating this

healthy beverage into their daily routines.

In light of this, this study focused on a journey to explore a more convenient and

accessible alternative turmeric and lemongrass tea in cube form and it takes a deep dive into the

development and evaluation of this innovative approach to delivering the health benefits of

turmeric. This study aims to address the surging demand for practicality and nutritional value, as

well as the potential advantages of this novel turmeric tea product in catering to the wellness

aspirations of individuals navigating the challenges of contemporary living. Thereby contributing

to the ongoing exploration of health-conscious yet convenient beverage choices in the modern

world.
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Building upon the foundation of turmeric's medicinal prowess, this research study delves

into the synergistic potential of combining turmeric with lemongrass to create herbal tea cubes.

Lemongrass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, boasts its own set of health benefits,

including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The integration of lemongrass with

turmeric aims to not only enhance the flavor profile of the tea cubes but also to amplify the

health-promoting attributes, creating a holistic and well-rounded herbal beverage.

The choice of lemongrass as a companion to turmeric is strategic, considering its

refreshing and citrusy notes, which could complement the earthy tones of turmeric. Moreover,

lemongrass is celebrated for its potential stress-relieving properties and its ability to promote

digestion, adding an extra layer of wellness to the concoction. This research seeks to investigate

the feasibility of turmeric and lemongrass as herbal tea cubes. By exploring this innovative

combination, the study aims to contribute valuable insights into the realm of herbal beverages,

catering to a diverse audience seeking convenient yet healthful choices amidst the demands of

modern lifestyles.

Objectives of the Study

This project generally endeavor to make a Turmeric and Lemongrass Herbal Tea Cubes.

Specifically, the study will seek to answer the following questions:

1. What is the feasibility level of Turmeric and Lemongrass Herbal Tea Cubes?

2. What is the most likely formulation of Turmeric and Lemongrass Herbal Tea Cubes?

Significance of the Study

The research outcomes have the potential to bring benefits to a worldwide community

facing various health challenges, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections,

allergies, liver conditions, depression, and numerous other ailments. The research is expected to
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offer a cost-effective alternative to conventional medications and it has a lot of benefits in terms

of convenience such as easy transport, reduced mess, easy storage, consistent dosage, and on the

go solution. The following individuals stand to gain from the findings of this research.

Manufacturers could leverage the findings of this study to develop turmeric tea in cube

form, catering to the growing consumer demand for a convenient and health-beneficial product.

This study is very much beneficial for the consumers because they may be able to save

time, for convenience and varied advantages and benefits of the Turmeric Tea Cubes.

Researchers may use this study to further investigate in innovating a different form of

products out of turmeric plant, and this study may also inspire the search of herbal medicines.

Scope and Delimitation

The investigation limits the boundaries of its production pertaining only to such use of

powdered Turmeric and powdered Lemongrass and honey bee syrup as a sweetener and as a

binding agent. The honey bee syrup was bought at the Gonzaga Public Market, the honey bee

syrup is originally from Apollo, Calayan Island.

The turmeric and lemongrass were harvested at Rebecca, Gonzaga, Cagayan, the same
location the process of making Turmeric and Lemongrass Herbal Tea Cubes had taken place.

This study only deals in determining the feasibility level of Turmeric and Lemongrass

Herbal Tea Cubes and it does not study the shelf life of the Tea Cubes.

The respondents in the research were twenty (20) purposively selected teaching and non-

teaching staff of Rebecca National High School and Tea consumers of Barangay Rebecca,

Gonzaga, Cagayan, the data gathered through survey questionnaires.

Conceptual Framework
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In compliance with RA 8423, also known as the Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Act (TAMA) of 1997, specifically Article 1, Section 3, Paragraphs 1 and 2, which encourages

the scientific exploration and advancement of traditional and alternative medicinal practices, this

study addresses the evolving health needs of individuals in our fast-paced modern society.

People are increasingly inclined to seek practical and convenient ways to integrate natural

remedies into their daily routines. Turmeric, a highly esteemed spice celebrated for its medicinal

properties and commonly used in Filipino culture, contains the valuable curcumin compound,

known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant attributes.

Turmeric tea has gained popularity as a means to harness the potential health benefits of

turmeric, offering a holistic wellness solution. However, the conventional preparation of turmeric

tea from powdered form can be time-consuming and may not align with the demands of

contemporary living. This research endeavors to assess the convenience, viability, and consumer

receptivity of turmeric tea cubes as an alternative method for enjoying the benefits of turmeric.

The core objective is to identify the optimal formulation for producing turmeric tea in a cube

form.

The findings of this research, if successful, hold the potential to introduce a more

convenient and user-friendly form of turmeric tea to the market. This innovative approach could

bring forth a range of benefits and advantages, meeting the evolving health and lifestyle

preferences of today's consumers.

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The Feasibility of Pulverized

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
and Lemongrass
(Cymbopogon citratus) as
Herbal Tea Cubes

TURMERIC AND LEMONGRASS

TEA CUBES

INPUT INPUT

FORMULATION 2
FORMULATION 1
 Powdered Turmeric 50g
 Powdered Turmeric 50g
 Honey Bee
 Honey Bee
 Syrup 50g
 Syrup 50g
 Powdered Lemongrass 50g
 Powdered Lemongrass 25g

PROCESS
 Wash the materials needed.
 Slice the ingredients.
 Dry the ingredients.
 Grind the ingredients.
 Weigh the ingredients.
 Mix the ingredients.
 Compact the Mixture into a cube molder.
 Dust it with Cornstarch.
 Chill it into a chiller and product packaging.

OUTPUT

 Turmeric and Lemongrass Tea Cubes

 Determine Feasibility of Pulverized Turmeric (Curcuma longa) and
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) as Herbal Tea Cubes
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Figure 1: The Process of Making Turmeric and Lemongrass Herbal Tea Cubes

Definition of Terms

The following key terms in the study are conceptually defined. Some are operationally

defined for the research to have a better understanding of the relevance of these terms in the

present study:

Anti-inflammatory is reducing of inflammation and swelling.

Binding agent is a substance that holds ingredients together.

Feasibility is the practicality or possibility of a product.

Innovative is introducing new ideas or methods.

Lemongrass is a spice with medicinal properties and was used in this study.

Shelf life is the duration a product remains usable.

Sweetener is a substance used to add sweetness.

Tea cubes are cubic form of turmeric and lemongrass tea.

Time-consuming means requiring a significant amount of time.

Traditional preparation is a conventional method of making turmeric tea.

Turmeric is a spice with medicinal properties and was used in this study.

User-friendly means easy or simple to use or operate.

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Well-being is the state of being healthy and content.

Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

Turmeric Potential Health Benefits

As per Singletary's findings in 2020, Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric,

has a rich history of both culinary and medicinal use in Asian cultures. Traditionally, it has been

employed to address various health concerns, including inflammation, pain management, wound

healing, and digestive issues. Over time, extensive preclinical research has uncovered the

potential of turmeric and its bioactive curcuminoid polyphenols to impact a wide range of

chronic conditions.

Human trials exploring the effectiveness of oral turmeric and its curcuminoids in treating

diseases and disorders have been limited by the challenge of poor oral bioavailability of these

compounds. However, advancements in absorption-enhanced curcuminoid formulations in recent

years have paved the way for numerous clinical studies. These trials have investigated turmeric's

potential role in addressing inflammatory conditions and the regulation of glucose and lipids.

This narrative review of human trials delves into the scientific evidence regarding the

potential health benefits of turmeric and its curcuminoids, specifically in the context of treating

arthritis, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. It also offers insights into potential areas for future

research in this field.

Traditional Uses of Turmeric

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The rhizome of Curcuma longa L., commonly known as turmeric, has been a prominent

herbal medicine, coloring agent, spice, and food additive for millennia, particularly in various

regions worldwide, with a strong presence in Asian countries. It has played a significant role in

diverse traditional medical systems, including Islamic traditional medicine, Chinese traditional

medicine, and Ayurveda. Turmeric has been employed for a wide spectrum of health issues, with

primary use in addressing digestive problems and serving as a cardio-, hepato-, and

neuroprotective agent. Additionally, it has been applied in managing various inflammatory

conditions like arthritis and in supporting immune system function.

A key component of turmeric, curcumin, a diarylheptanoid derivative, possesses

remarkable properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer attributes. It also

has a role in controlling obesity and metabolic issues, while contributing to memory and mood

improvement. Curcumin's therapeutic potential has been substantiated through preclinical and

clinical studies and is presently the subject of human trials for a range of health conditions.

These encompass metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis,

migraine, premenstrual syndrome, ulcerative colitis, knee osteoarthritis, polycystic ovarian

syndrome, atherosclerosis, liver cirrhosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, depression, psoriasis,

and Alzheimer's disease. Of particular note is the burgeoning focus on curcumin's capacity to

prevent or suppress obesity and metabolic-related issues. These findings underscore that the

traditional applications of turmeric can be largely attributed to its principal constituent,

curcumin. Drawing from the rich traditional heritage of turmeric use and the well-established

clinical value of curcumin, further preclinical investigations for unexplored properties and large-

scale clinical studies to confirm these activities are anticipated. (Based on the study by Akaberi

et al., 2021)
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Phytochemicals of Turmeric

According to the study of Sabie et al., 2021, Curcuma longa, a significant dietary plant,

offers a range of pharmacological activities, encompassing antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-

inflammatory, anticancer, and anticoagulant properties, among others. The objective of the

present study was to explore the phenolic composition of Curcuma longa and assess its in vitro

antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials.

In the HPLC chromatogram of Curcuma longa rhizome extract, fifteen distinct phenolic

compounds were identified, including Digalloyl-hexoside, Caffeic acid hexoside, Curdione,

Coumaric, Caffeic acid, Sinapic acid, Quercetin-3-D-galactoside, Casuarinin,

Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcuminol, Demethoxycurcumin, and Isorhamnetin, Valoneic acid

bilactone, Curcumin, and Curcumin-O-glucuronide.

The ethanolic extract exhibited notable properties, with an IC50 value of 37.1±0.3 µg/ml

against alpha-glucosidase. Furthermore, the IC50 value for DPPH radical scavenging activity

was 27.2 ± 1.1 μg/mL. In summary, the ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa stands out as a rich

source of curcumin and a variety of significant phenolic compounds. The in vitro antioxidant and

alpha-glucosidase inhibitory effects of this plant substantiate its longstanding use in traditional

medicine.

Studies on Treating Diseases Using Turmeric Herbal Medicine

(John J Bright 2007) The immune system has evolved to protect the host from microbial

infection; nevertheless, a breakdown in the immune system often results in infection, cancer, and

autoimmune diseases. Multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory

bowel disease, myocarditis, thyroiditis, uveitis, systemic lupus erythromatosis, and myasthenia

gravis are organ-specific autoimmune diseases that afflict more than 5% of the population
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worldwide. Although the etiology is not known and a cure is still wanting, the use of herbal and

dietary supplements is on the rise in patients with autoimmune diseases, mainly because they are

effective, inexpensive, and relatively safe. Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound isolated from

the rhizome of the plant Curcuma longa that has traditionally been used for pain and wound-

healing. Recent studies have shown that curcumin ameliorates multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid

arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease in human or animal models. Curcumin

inhibits these autoimmune diseases by regulating inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1beta, IL-6,

IL-12, TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma and associated JAK-STAT, AP-1, and NF-kappaB signaling

pathways in immune cells. Although the beneficial effects of nutraceuticals are traditionally

achieved through dietary consumption at low levels for long periods of time, the use of purified

active compounds such as curcumin at higher doses for therapeutic purposes needs extreme

caution. A precise understanding of effective dose, safe regiment, and mechanism of action is

required for the use of curcumin in the treatment of human autoimmune diseases.

Taxonomy of Turmeric

This plant is called Luyang Dilaw in the common language of the Philippines. It is called

Turmeric in the English language. Its scientific name is Curcuma longa. This plant belongs to

Kingdom Plantae, Order Zingiberales, Family

Zingiberaceae, Genus Curcuma and Species C. longa.

Therapeutic uses of Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus, Stapf (Lemon grass) is a widely used herb in tropical countries,

especially in Southeast Asia. The essential oil of the plant is used in aromatherapy. The

compounds identified in Cymbopogon citratus are mainly terpenes, alcohols, ketones, aldehyde

and esters. Some of the reported phytoconstituents are essential oils that contain Citral α, Citral
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β, Nerol Geraniol, Citronellal, Terpinolene, Geranyl acetate, Myrecene and Terpinol

Methylheptenone. The plant also contains reported phytoconstituents such as flavonoids and

phenolic compounds, which consist of luteolin, isoorientin 2’-O-rhamnoside, quercetin,

kaempferol and apiginin. Studies indicate that Cymbopogon citratus possesses various

pharmacological activities such as anti-amoebic, antibacterial, antidiarrheal, antifilarial,

antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Various other effects like antimalarial,

antimutagenicity, antimycobacterial, antioxidants, hypoglycemic and neurobehaviorial have also

been studied. These results are very encouraging and indicate that this herb should be studied

more extensively to confirm these results and reveal other potential therapeutic effects. (Sha G

etal., 2011)

Recommended Daily Sugar Consumption

The American Health Association (AHA) suggests a stricter added-sugar limit of no more

than 100 calories per day (about 6 teaspoons or 24 grams) for most adult women and no more

than 150 calories per day (about 9 teaspoons or 36 grams of sugar) for most men.

Honey Bee Syrup Benefits

Honey has been used since ancient times as both a sweetener and medicine.

It is a viscous liquid produced by honeybees and ranges in color from straw yellow to

dark brown. The bees collect nectar from flowers and mix it with enzymes to form honey before

storing it in honeycomb cells to keep it fresh.

Honey is associated with several benefits:

More nutrients and less processed than sugar. Honey varies in its nutritional composition

based on the origin of the nectar used to make it. In general, it contains trace amounts of local

pollen along with other substances, such as:

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 amino acids

 antioxidants

 enzymes

 minerals

 vitamins

Some research indicates that dark honey has more antioxidants than light honey.

Also, honey is less processed than sugar as it is usually only pasteurized before use. Raw

honey is also edible and contains more antioxidants and enzymes than pasteurized varieties.

Cough suppressant

Some research suggests that honey is a natural way to ease a cough in children. A 2007

study found that children with bronchitis who were given dark honey experienced greater

symptom relief than those taking a placebo. However, the benefits were small.

More recent research suggests that honey is better than no treatment at all for a cough,

although some medications provide greater symptom relief.

Allergy relief

Anecdotal reports indicate that locally-produced honey may help reduce seasonal allergy

symptoms. However, clinical studies have not demonstrated this consistently.

One study published in 2011, found that people with birch pollen allergy, who took birch

pollen honey, experienced:

 a 60 percent reduction in symptoms

 70 percent fewer days with severe symptoms

 twice as many days without symptoms

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They were also able to reduce their antihistamine intake by 50 percent compared to the

control group. These benefits may have been compounded by honey’s antioxidant and anti-

inflammatory benefits.

Also, one treatment for allergies is to desensitize the body to reactions by repeatedly

introducing small amounts of allergens. In line with this, local honey may contain traces of the

pollens that cause seasonal allergies.

Comparison of Honey Bee Syrup and Sugar Syrup

Honey and sugar are both carbohydrates, consisting of the two types of sugar: glucose
and fructose. Refined fructose, which is found in sweeteners, is metabolized by the liver and has
been associated with:

 obesity
 fatty liver disease
 diabetes

Both fructose and glucose are broken down quickly by the body and can cause spikes in
blood sugar levels. The proportions of glucose and fructose in honey and sugar are different:

 sugar is 50 percent fructose and 50 percent glucose

 honey contains 40 percent fructose and 30 percent glucose

 water
 pollen
 minerals, including magnesium and potassium

These additional components may be responsible for some of the health benefits of honey.

Sugar is higher on the glycemic index (GI) than honey, meaning it raises blood sugar
levels more quickly. This is due to its higher fructose content, and the absence of trace
minerals.
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But honey has slightly more calories than sugar, although it is sweeter, so less may be
required. Both sweeteners can lead to weight gain if overused.

Chapter 3

Methodology
A. Materials
o Ingredients

Turmeric Lemongrass

Cornstarch
Honey Bee Syrup

o Tools and Equipment

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Blender Pouches

Measuring cups and spoons Turbo Broiler

Weighing scale Silicon Cube Mold

Wire whisk Spatula

Knife and Cutting board Mixing bowl and baking pan

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B. Experimental Design
The research investigated the feasibility of the tea cubes. Primarily Two distinct

formulations were created, each following a 1:1:0.5 ratio and 1:1:1. The first formulation

comprised 50 grams of powdered turmeric, 50 grams of honey bee syrup and 25 grams of

powdered lemongrass, while the second formulation featured 50 grams of powdered turmeric, 50

grams of honey bee syrup and 50 grams lemongrass.

o Gathering of Materials
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Washing of Materials

o Slicing of Materials
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o Drying of Materials
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Grinding of Materials
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o Weighing of Materials
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o Mixing of Materials

Molding of Mixture into the Cube Molder

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o Product Packaging

o Testing of the Product