National Research Expo Highlights Groundbreaking Inventions
A significant national exhibition is currently underway, showcasing over 1,000 research and innovation projects from 231 organizations across Thailand. Organized by the National Research Council of Thailand, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the event aims to advance understanding and application in areas such as future technology, the Bio-Circular-Green Economy, environmental sustainability, and quality of life improvements.
Kratom-Based Herbal Medicine Offers Addiction Solutions
Among the featured innovations is a remarkable development in herbal medicine for addiction cessation. The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has unveiled its ‘Kratom-Based Herbal Medicine Innovation,’ building upon their previous success in developing a methamphetamine cessation drug in 2024. This new initiative draws inspiration from a century-old traditional formula used for opium withdrawal.
From Opium to Methamphetamine: A New Approach
Theerathorn Sungrai, an official pharmacist at the Department, explained the research team’s inquiry into whether the traditional opium withdrawal remedy could be adapted for methamphetamine addiction. Through detailed studies of the molecular mechanisms and brain receptor interactions of the ancient formula, researchers confirmed its efficacy.
“The herbal remedy regulates dopamine, which gives people a sense of pleasure. This concoction helps balance the hormone that allows amphetamine addicts to gradually withdraw from the drug within two weeks,” Theerathorn stated.
Safe and Effective Kratom Use
A key component of the treatment is kratom, however, Theerathorn emphasized its use within strict safety limits set by the Food and Drug Administration, ensuring patients do not develop new dependencies.
A clinical trial involving 2,000 patients over one month demonstrated substantial results. Participants experienced an almost 90% reduction in symptoms such as craving, insomnia, fatigue, and headaches.
Expanding to Smoking and Alcohol Addiction
The research team has also developed effervescent tablets from different herbal formulas to address smoking and alcohol addiction. These tablets, derived from traditional liquid herbal remedies, are designed for enhanced convenience and rapid absorption.
For alcohol addiction, the latest formula utilizes ‘Prasa Kal Daeng,’ a traditional medication. “Our team chose the Prasa Kal Daeng formula because it contains herbs related to the digestive system, which make it suitable for chronic drinkers and those suffering from the side effects of heavy drinking,” Theerathorn noted.
Neuroprotective Properties and Clinical Success
This alcohol cessation formula, while acting on the brain, has been found to be non-toxic to brain cells and exhibits significant antioxidant and neuroprotective properties in cellular studies.
A study involving 20 participants who used the effervescent tablets daily when experiencing alcohol cravings showed a marked improvement. Within two weeks, the majority of participants transitioned from hazardous drinking levels to low-risk consumption. An additional 50 patients are currently undergoing follow-up treatment through hospitals.
The medication is affordably priced at approximately one baht per tablet but requires a prescription from a traditional medicine doctor. “The success of treatment depends on individual suitability. Patients must consult a doctor for evaluation to ensure appropriate and sustainable treatment,” Theerathorn advised.
Bio-Melanin Fibres Offer Sustainable Fashion Solutions
Another compelling innovation is ‘Bio-Melanin Fibres from Acid Sulfate Soil,’ developed by a team from Silpakorn University’s Faculty of Decorative Arts, led by Asst Prof Khajornsak Nakpan and Assoc Prof Supavee Sirinkraporn.
Designing for Diverse Skin Tones
Asst Prof Khajornsak, with extensive experience in the fashion industry, identified melanin pigmentation as a crucial factor in clothing preferences, often overlooked in favor of global color trends. He recognized that natural melanin equivalents could be found in sources like soil and squid ink.
Driven by a commitment to zero waste and sustainability, Asst Prof Khajornsak began studying acid sulfate soil in Nakhon Nayok province. His research was inspired by findings in northern Poland that indicated the presence of streptomyces, a beneficial bacteria capable of producing a natural equivalent to human melanin.
“Melanin is the pigment that determines human skin colour, which offers UV-blocking properties that help prevent skin cancer. A wider distribution of melanin pigment results in lighter, fairer skin, while a dense distribution of melanin leads to darker skin,” explained Asst Prof Khajornsak.
From Degraded Land to High-Value Fibres
The production process involves boiling the acid sulfate soil and cultivating it with natural substrates like sugar, yeast, and a SCOBY. Over 14 to 21 days, the bacteria create fibers. These are then cleaned and dried to form thin, lightweight bio-melanin sheets with a leather-like texture.
The project has not only demonstrated scientific innovation but also fostered community development. Asst Prof Khajornsak shared the production techniques with local residents in Nakhon Nayok, who have found creative applications for the material, including the development of biodegradable plant pots.
International Recognition and Future Aspirations
The project has garnered significant international attention. Asst Prof Khajornsak recounted how handcrafted necklaces made by local villagers, with a production cost of around 500 baht, were successfully sold for 20,000 baht at Roma Jewelry Week in Italy, highlighting the economic value created for the community.
The bio-melanin fiber research has received international acclaim, with collections based on the material winning prestigious awards such as the Grand Award at Romanian Jewelry Week 2021 and the A’ Design Award in Italy in 2022.
Looking ahead, Asst Prof Khajornsak expressed his ambition for Thai superstar Lisa to wear his designs. He is currently exploring research into volcanic soil in Buri Ram, Lisa’s hometown, with the hope of creating a bio-melanin piece for her to wear in the future.
