Latest ArticlesPinelliae Rhizoma can dry dampness and resolve phlegm, suppress counter flow and stop vomiting, eliminate fullness and disperse nodules. It has been a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine in clinical practice since ancient times. There are multiple processed Pinelliae Rhizoma preparations used clinically, with the most common being Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum cum Alumine, Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum, and Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum cum Zingibere et Alumine. However, clinical differentiation between these three is often unclear. Therefore, based on classical texts and modern research, this paper examines the differences in processing methods, characteristics, chemical constituents, and pharmacological effects among them, aiming to provide a basis for their clinical application and standardize their use.
To investigate the clinical efficacy of modified Baihu Guizhi Decoction combined with methotrexate (MTX) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
A randomized controlled trial was conducted. A total of 120 RA patients admitted to the outpatient and inpatient departments of Rheumatology and Immunology at Xinyang Central Hospital from January 2022 to April 2024 were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 60 cases in each group. The control group received standard-dose MTX, while the observation group received modified Baihu Guizhi Decoction in addition to the MTX regimen. The treatment duration was 12 weeks. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, joint swelling degree, morning stiffness duration, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF) titer, C-reactive protein (CRP), and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) levels were compared between the two groups before and after treatment to evaluate efficacy and safety.
After treatment, TCM syndrome scores, VAS scores, morning stiffness duration, and joint swelling degree improved in both groups, and ESR, RF, CRP, and MIF levels decreased (P < 0.05). The observation group showed significantly greater improvements compared to the control group (P <0.05). The proportion of patients achieving ACR50/70 improvement criteria was higher (P < 0.05), and the incidence of adverse reactions was lower (P < 0.05) in the observation group.
Modified Baihu Guizhi Decoction combined with MTX demonstrates significant efficacy in treating RA with Wind-Damp-Heat obstruction syndrome. Its mechanism of action may be related to the regulation of CRP and MIF expression.
To analyze the efficacy of external application of Zihua Shengji Formula (Purple Flower Tissue Regeneration Formula) on postoperative wounds in anorectal surgery based on the theory of "Fostering exudate to promote tissue regeneration" Theory.
A total of 120 patients with low simple anal fistula/external haemorrhoid undergoing surgery in the Anorectal Department of Handan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from November 2023 to November 2024 were selected as the study subjects. Patients were numbered 1-120 according to their visit sequence and randomly divided into a control group (60 cases, receiving routine postoperative wound care with Western medicine) and a study group (60 cases, receiving routine postoperative wound care with Western medicine plus external application of Zihua Shengji Formula). The wound healing status, wound pain level, inflammatory cytokine levels in wound tissue, growth factor levels, and extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism-related indicators were compared between the two groups.
Compared with the control group, the study group showed significantly higher wound healing rates on the 7th and 14th postoperative days, significantly lower Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores on the 7th and 14th postoperative days, and a significantly shorter wound healing time (P <0.05). Compared with levels on the 1st postoperative day within each group, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 in wound tissue on the 14th postoperative day decreased significantly in both groups, while IL-10 levels increased significantly. Furthermore, compared with the control group, the study group exhibited significantly lower levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and significantly higher levels of IL-10 on the 14th postoperative day (P < 0.05). Compared with levels on the 1st postoperative day within each group, the levels of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in wound tissue on the 14th postoperative day increased significantly in both groups. Additionally, compared with the control group, the study group showed significantly higher levels of PDGF, VEGF, and bFGF on the 14th postoperative day (P < 0.05). Compared with levels on the 1st postoperative day within each group, the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in wound tissue on the 14th postoperative day decreased significantly in both groups, while type I collagen (Col I) levels increased significantly. Moreover, compared with the control group, the study group had significantly lower levels of MMP-2 and significantly higher levels of Col I on the 14th postoperative day (P < 0.05).
External application of Zihua Shengji Formula facilitates the reduction of postoperative pain and wound inflammation in anorectal surgery patients. It regulates the levels of wound growth factors and ECM metabolism-related indicators, promotes wound repair, and shortens wound healing time.
To observe the efficacy and safety of Huangrong Wuren Paste in the treatment of slow transit constipation.
In the pharmacodynamic study, 36 mice were randomly divided into blank group, model group, lactulose group (10 mg/kg), Huangrong Wuren Paste low (2 515 mg/kg), medium (5 030 mg/kg), high (10 060 mg/kg) dose groups, 6 mice in each group, half male and half female. The constipation model was prepared by oral gavage of loperamide hydrochloride at 10mg/kg in all groups except the blank group. The blank group was given equal volume of saline once a day for 14 days. After the model was built, Huangrong Wuren Paste was given for treatment once a day for 14 days. Observe the general state of the mice, the time of first melena excretion, the number and moisture content of faeces, and the intestinal moisture content. Toxicological studies were divided into Acute Oral Toxicity Test, Bacterial Reverse Mutation Assay, Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test and Spermatogonia Chromosome Aberration Assay. Observe the corresponding indicators.
①Compared with lactulose group, the melena excretion time of mice in low, all groups of Huangrong Wuren Paste was significantly shortened, and the time was shortened with the increase of the concentration of Huangrong Wuren Paste. ②Compared with both model group and lactulose group, the propellant rate of carbon powder in Huangrong Wuren Paste high-dose group was significantly increased (P < 0. 05).③Compared with model group, the intestinal moisture content in high-dose Huangrong Wuren Paste group was significantly increased (P <0. 01). ④Under the toxicological studies, the mice were generally in good condition, and there were no signs of poisoning and death. After the dissection, there were no signs of lesions in the organs. The number of revertant colonies for strain TA1535 was less than three times that of the untreated control group, the number of revertant colonies for the remaining strains was less than twice that of untreated control group. the incidence of bone marrow PCE micronucleus did not increase and the spermatogonial cells did not exhibit any aberrant reactions.
Huangrong Wuren Paste has obvious curative effect and high safety on slow transit constipation, with no reproductive toxicity.
This paper elaborates on the theoretical connotations of Professor Zhang Boli's "Dampness-Turbidity-Phlegm-Fluid Retention Diseases". These disorders often arise from modern lifestyle changes that cause dysfunction in spleen transportation, impaired regulation of the Triple Burner (Sanjiao), and obstacles in lipid metabolism, leading to abnormal body fluid metabolism. Given that dampness, turbidity, phlegm, and fluid retention often intertwine and are difficult to resolve, simply differentiating a single pathogen is insufficient for guiding complex clinical practice. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the nuanced pathological mechanisms where multiple factors intersect. This study focuses on elucidating four complex pathological patterns: the coexistence of dryness and dampness, the intermingling of clear and turbid, the simultaneous pathology of blood and water, and the divergent transformation of qi and fluids. For the coexistence of dryness and dampness, treatment should prioritize nourishing Yin and moistening dryness without aggravating dampness, while resolving phlegm and drying dampness without damaging Yin. In cases of intermingling of clear and turbid, simultaneous ascending of the clear and descending of the turbid is essential. For blood-water co-pathology, therapeutic strategies should follow the principle of "harmonizing with warm-natured medicinals." In scenarios of divergent Qi-fluid transformation, methods to fortify the spleen and uplift Yang are warranted. This study refines the theoretical framework of these disorders, revealing the laws governing their complex pathogenesis, and provides novel insights for the precise diagnosis and treatment of related refractory diseases.
Based on the theory of" Kidney Governing Reproduction", the clinical efficacy of Yushen Zhuyun Formula in treating ovulation dysfunction infertility was discussed.
A total of 102 patients with ovulatory infertility admitted to Nanyang Second General Hospital from January 2022 to January 2024 were selected and randomly divided into a control group (conventional western medicine treatment) and a study group (conventional western medicine + treatment of Yushen Zhuyun Formula) with 51 cases in each group. Record and compare the clinical curative effect of TCM syndrome integral, the two groups, ultrasonic index, sex hormone [serum luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)] level and incidence of adverse reactions.
After treatment, two groups of TCM syndrome integral are lower than before the treatment, and the team was lower (P <0.05). After treatment, clinical treatment group total effective rate was 92.16%, 76.47% higher than the control group (P <0.05). After treatment, the number of dominant follicles was more in both groups than before treatment, and more in the study group (P <0. 05). Two groups of dominant follicle diameter and the thickness of endometrium is higher than before the treatment, and the group is higher (P < 0.05). After treatment, two groups of LH, FSH level was reduced, the E2 levels are higher, and larger variations in team (P < 0.05). During the treatment period, the incidence of adverse reactions in the study group was 5.82%, which was lower than that in the control group 15. 69% (P > 0.05). The natural pregnancy rate in the study group was 41.18%, which was higher than the 21.57% in the control group (P < 0.05).
The Yushen Zhuyun Formula, based on the theory of "Kidney Governing Reproduction", has significant effect on ovulation dysfunction infertility patients, can effectively promote follicle and endometrial development, regulate the recovery of sex hormone levels, with a low incidence of adverse reactions.
Professor Wu Yaonan has been engaged in clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine for over 40 years and has accumulated extensive experience in medicinal application, demonstrating particular ingenuity in the treatment of spleen-stomach disorders. This article systematically reviews Professor Wu's medical records in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of spleen-stomach diseases, summarizes his distinctive medicinal experience in pattern differentiation and treatment of these conditions, and categorizes his commonly used characteristic herbs according to their main effects into four groups: clearing heat, promoting diuresis, and stopping diarrhea (Bidens pilosa, Acalypha australis, Pteris multifida) ; detoxifying, activating blood circulation, and dissipating nodules (Actinidia arguta roots, Salvia chinensis, Zanthoxylum nitidum, Rostellularia procumbens) ; soothing the liver, regulating qi, and relieving depression (Akebia quinata, Hypericum sampsonii) ; and promoting tissue regeneration, healing sores, and alleviating pain (Membrana follicularis ovi) . The usage and precautions for each medicinal are also summarized.
To investigate the antidepressant effects of Zhizi Chi Decoction (ZZCD) on depression-like behaviors induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in rats and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Depression- and anxiety- like behaviors were evaluated using the sucrose preference test (SPT), open field test (OFT), and elevated plus maze (EPM). Microglial activation and inflammatory mediators were assessed by immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and Western blot. Levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA), quinolinic acid (QA), and oxidative stress markers were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and biochemical kits. In addition, QA-treated BV-2 microglial cells were employed to validate the cellular mechanisms. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis was performed to characterize the chemical profile of ZZCD.
ZZCD significantly improved depression- and anxiety- like behaviors in CUMS rats, suppressed M1-type activation and promoted M2 polarization of microglia, corrected the imbalance of KYNA/QA, and alleviated oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) while enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities. Moreover, ZZCD inhibited the NF-κB pathway and activated ERK/CREB signaling in both hippocampal tissues and BV-2 cells, accompanied by upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and synaptic plasticity-related proteins, including postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and synaptophysin.
ZZCD exerts antidepressant effects through multi-target mechanisms, including regulation of microglial activation, kynurenine pathway balance, oxidative stress reduction, and ERK/CREB pathway activation, which may contribute to the restoration of synaptic plasticity. These findings provide experimental evidence supporting the potential of ZZCD as a traditional Chinese medicine-based intervention for depression.
Pearl powder is a traditional Chinese medicinal with astringent properties, traditionally used to remove toxins, promote granulation, calm the mind, improve vision, and eliminate turbidity. Studies have revealed that pearl powder is rich in various bioactive components, including calcium carbonate, multiple amino acids, trace elements, and peptides. In the context of tissue repair, pearl powder facilitates wound healing through diverse pharmacological mechanisms. These include promoting cell proliferation and differentiation, enhancing collagen synthesis, exerting antibacterial effects, inhibiting the release of inflammatory factors, providing antioxidant activity, and demonstrating osteogenic potential. Consequently, it exhibits a promising application prospect in this field. This review aims to summarize the chemical constituents of pearl powder and its pharmacological actions in tissue repair, thereby validating its safety and efficacy in wound management and providing a reference for clinical application.
To evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with electroacupuncture in the treatment of early to mid-stage osteoarthritis of the knee based on the theory of 'Shaoyang Governing the Bone'.
A total of 102 patients with early to mid-stage knee osteoarthritis (KOA) admitted to Sichuan Orthopedic Hospital from August 2022 to August 2024 were enrolled and randomly assigned to the observation group (n = 50) or the control group (n = 52). All patients received basic treatment and specific exercise training. In the control group, early-stage patients were treated with meloxicam tablets and glucosamine hydrochloride capsules, while mid-stage patients additionally received intra-articular sodium hyaluronate injection. On the basis of the control regimen, patients in the observation group underwent acupuncture treatment guided by the "Shaoyang governing bone" theory combined with electroacupuncture using a sparse-dense wave. Both groups were treated for three courses, with each course lasting two weeks. Observe the changes of clinical efficacy, SF-36 health survey scale score, TCM symptom score, WOMAC and VAS scale score, β-collagen degradation product (β-CTX) and 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) level in the two groups.
After three courses of treatment, the total efficacy rate of 98. 00% in the observation group was significantly higher than that of 84.62% in the control group (P <0.05), the scores of the eight dimensions of SF-36 scale were significantly improved (P <0.05), the TCM symptom scores, the scores of WOMAC and VAS scales were significantly reduced (P <0.05), the level of β-CTX was significantly reduced (P <0.05) and 25-OH-VD levels were significantly higher (P <0.05), and the improvement of all indicators was more obvious in the observation group (P < 0.05). In addition, there were 3 cases of adverse reactions in the observation group and 4 cases in the control group, indicating that this study has a better safety profile.
Based on the theory that "Shaoyang governing the bones," the therapeutic approach combining the method of regulating qi, activating blood circulation, and tonifying the kidney with electroacupuncture has shown good clinical efficacy in the treatment of early- and middle-stage knee osteoarthritis. It can significantly improve patients' quality of life, relieve pain, regulate bone metabolism to reduce bone loss, slow down joint degeneration, enhance bone health, and thereby improve knee joint function.
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