BANGKOK, 25 August 2011 – The Ministry of Public Health will push forward a comprehensive research into velvet bean or locally called ‘Ma Mui’, to make the traditional Thai herb a modern cure for Parkinson and infertility in men.

Public Health Minister Wittaya Buranasiri and his deputy Torphong Chaiyasarn brought about 200 cups of coffees made from velvet beans to serve MPs, senators and Parliament officials during the policy statement deliberation on Wednesday.

Mr Wittaya told the press that the ministry has been promoting development of Thai herbs as treatment alternatives for people. He said over 100 Thai herbs have been included in the national drug list to be used as medicine and supplements.

The minister said recently a research in India found that velvet beans or Ma Mui, which are abundant in Thailand can cure Parkinson, the disease which is shaking the nerves of about 5-6 million Thai people, especially senior citizens as well as stimulate sperm production among men experiencing infertility.

Mr Wittaya hence has assigned the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Development, the Department of Medical Science and Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital Foundation to conduct more study into Ma Mui to make it scientifically and clinically acceptable.

The minister said developed products then will be registered with the Food and Drug Administration. He expected that the native herb will be developed as both medicine and supplement. He voiced his confidence that the finding will be very beneficial for people and the Thai pharmaceutical industry.