Micah Jemimah Calahat

Straight from a tale as old as time — today’s breakthrough suggests the next anti-aging antidote not in a form of cream or capsule, but in a centuries-old Filipino rice wine leftover.

Researchers from Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and University of the Philippines (UP) found anti-aging compounds in lees, the solid by-product leftovers of the Philippine native rice wine called tapuy. 


Lees are remnants often discarded after the wine is made, however, studies have been eyeing on finding the worth of such waste in a medical light.

In the study, different microbial mix starters, or bubod, microorganisms that help jumpstart fermentation were observed upon utilization for its fermentation process. 

“We found out that if we modify the process by incorporating a well-defined microbial starter, it would enhance the polyphenol content. Thus, tapuy lees could become a good source of compounds with medical and health benefits — like its anti-aging properties,” said Edward Bragais, a researcher from ADMU. 

Polyphenols are naturally found in plants, and are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They also show significant results in responding to cell damage. 

Chronic stress is known to be one of the major contributors to aging as it increases risks of age-related illnesses. 

Upon testing, concentrations of tapuy lees with the improved microbial mix were fed to different test animals, which later showed significant results in the study.

Experiments showed the extract boosted a roundworm’s life span by 72.2% which showed better health condition and cell growth as continuously observed.

Notably, the starter also increased levels of an enzyme called superoxide dismutase, which is responsible for protecting cells from age-deterioration. 

However, the researchers note that the study has only been tested on animals. Its implications on human benefits are subject to further clinical trials.

Despite its current status in the medical field, its idea has opened new doors for a promising addition to fight accelerated aging and potentially improve quality of health and lifespan — this time, more accessible, affordable and sustainable.