Abstract
Introduction: Ya-Tha-Pra-Sen (YTPS) is a traditional Thai remedy commonly used to alleviate osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal pain. Despite its longstanding use, its clinical effectiveness has not been clearly established, and a comprehensive synthesis of available evidence is lacking. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the clinical efficacy of YTPS for pain management.
Methods: Two independent reviewers conducted a systematic search of Thai and international databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, ThaiJo, and Thai Thesis) through February 2025. Search strategies were developed using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and related terms, including “Ya-Tha-Pra-Sen,” “YTPS,” and “Thai traditional medicine.” Effect sizes were pooled using a random-effects model, and statistical heterogeneity was evaluated.
Results: Five randomized studies from Thailand (total n = 261) with treatment durations of six days to four weeks met inclusion criteria. Compared with placebo, YTPS significantly reduced pain intensity (standardized mean difference [SMD] = –1.95; 95% CI: –2.65 to –1.24; P < 0.001). Pain reduction did not differ significantly between YTPS and topical analgesics (SMD = –0.22; 95% CI: –0.56 to 0.12; P = 0.21). However, YTPS produced significantly greater improvement in physical function than topical comparators (SMD = –0.68; 95% CI: –1.03 to –0.34; P < 0.001). No serious adverse events were reported.
Conclusion: YTPS appears to be a safe and potentially effective alternative to conventional topical analgesics for musculoskeletal and knee osteoarthritis pain. Nonetheless, conclusions are tempered by small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, and variability in formulation and standardization across studies.