Pancit pancitan or silver bush has historical roots in South America and Asian countries. We often see this plant in our garden and grows without maintenance. It is so common that we do not even have to do propagate it because it propagates itself. What we commonly know is its use for arthritis and an essential component of the “pito-pito†recipe. The usual preparation is a tea or drink made by a decoction of the succulent parts and leaves. However, we recommend its use as salad or eaten raw, mixed with tomatoes and onions for a daily dose to alleviate pain and swelling from arthritis. It contains essential oils and phytosterols. It can be used as topical but not for arthitis.
Topical use of pancit pancitan is best applied for skin infections such as boils and abscesses. It can induce diuresis when taken internally. Clinical studies on Peperomia pellucida showed the plant extract is not as effective compared with indomethacid to reduce pain but is more potent as anti-inflammatory agent, apparently interfering with prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins are inflammatory mediators. If you gather pancit pancitan, make sure you wash the plant very well before eating it raw. The young stems can also be eaten raw.
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