Overview of the efficacy and functions of Bupleurum

Bupleurum is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for relieving external symptoms.Soothes the liver and relieves stagnation, reconciles the exterior and interior, and promotes Yang QiThe three core functions are widely used in colds, fever, liver qi stagnation, visceral ptosis and other conditions. Its main component, saikosaponin, has anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects, and modern research has also confirmed that it has certain regulatory effects on the digestive system and central nervous system. The following article will start with traditional applications, modern research and precautions, and systematically analyze the value of this "first medicine for soothing the liver".

Bupleurum from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine

In "Treatise on Febrile Diseases", Bupleurum isXiaochaihu TangIt is a royal medicine that specializes in treating the alternating cold and heat symptoms of "Shaoyang disease". Traditional Chinese medicine believes that it is slightly cold in nature and returns to the liver and gallbladder meridian. It can not only dissipate wind-heat (such as the early stage of a cold), but also relieve liver stagnation (such as chest and hypochondrium pain).XiaoyaosanAmong other classic prescriptions, Bupleurum combined with white peony root and angelica root can relieve symptoms of liver qi discomfort such as depression and irregular menstruation. Li Shizhen, a physician in the Ming Dynasty, recorded in "Compendium of Materia Medica" that it "maintains qi in the intestines and stomach and accumulation of food and drink", emphasizing its regulating effect on sluggish qi.

Evidence from modern medical research

Modern pharmacology has found that saikosaponin can inhibitCyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)expression, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Animal experiments show that its extract can reduce alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and help protect the liver (see Table 1 for data). In addition, Bupleurum polysaccharide can activate macrophages and enhance the body's immunity. However, it should be noted that Bupleurum injection has caused allergic reactions, and its clinical use has been restricted, indicating that it carries certain risks.

Fair use precautions

Although Bupleurum has many uses, itThose with yin deficiency and yang hyperactivity (such as hot flashes and night sweats)It should be used with caution to avoid aggravating deficiency fire. Long-term large doses may cause nausea and dizziness. It is recommended to control the dosage (usually 3-10g) as directed by your doctor. Pregnant women and children should use it under the guidance of a physician. It is worth noting that its yang-boosting effect is beneficial to gastroptosis and uterine prolapse, but it cannot replace regular treatment and needs to be combined with a comprehensive plan such as acupuncture or surgery.

Summary and scientific understanding

As a model of the combination of traditional Chinese medicine and modern research, Bupleurum not only carries the theoretical essence of "regulating Qi" in traditional Chinese medicine, but also verifies part of the mechanism through scientific means. When using it, it is necessary to differentiate and treat it, and avoid abuse due to the blind pursuit of "soothing the liver and relieving stagnation". Future research can further focus on the targeting effects of its active ingredients to provide a basis for the development of safer derivative drugs.

Quote sources:

1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" Li Shizhen (Ming Dynasty)
2. "Pharmacology and Clinical Application of Chinese Herbal Medicine"·China Medical Science and Technology Press
3. National Pharmacopoeia Commission. "Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China" (2020 Edition)