A 16-year-old student from the Iloilo National High School has discovered the potential anti-diabetic components in Jamaica cherry, locally known as the aratiles fruit.
Maria Isabel Layson’s research, entitled “Bioactive Component, Antioxidant Activity, and Antidiabetic Properties of Muntingia calabura Linn. An In Vitro Study” looked into the medicinal properties of the fruit which grew abundantly in their backyard.
Layson said her research found bioactive compounds like anthocyanin, flavonoid, and polyphenol”•that may be useful as cure for diabetes”•in aratiles.
She presented her discovery to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Arizona in May as part of the Philippine delegation.
Although she did not win the competition, the incoming Grade 11 student is optimistic that her research could lead to the development of a cost-effective cure for diabetes.
