Major Research Findings

Several studies have shown that Kampo, traditional Japanese medicine, can be effective for various symptoms and diseases. 7 found that Ninjin'yoeito suppressed the onset of arthritis, pain, and muscle atrophy in rheumatoid arthritis model mice. 11 demonstrated that Ninjin'yoeito attenuated age-related deficits of muscle performance, self-care motivation, and body temperature in C57BL/6 mice. 14 indicated that Ninjin'yoeito increased dopamine content in PC12 cells. 22 showed that co-administration of Hachimi-Jio-Gan and Hochu-Ekki-To can reverse busulfan-induced aspermatogenesis. 3 suggested that Ninjinyoeito can improve impaired spatial memory and prefrontal cortical synaptic plasticity in a rat model with cerebral ischemia and β-amyloid injection. 10 identified oxytocin receptor activating chemical components from Kamikihito, a traditional Japanese medicine used to treat psychological stress-related disorders. 5 investigated the effects of water extracts of roots of cultivated Rheum species in Japan on the polarization of cultured microglia. 17 suggested that Tokishakuyakusan may be a potential therapeutic agent for preeclampsia. 8 revealed that kakkonto with shosaikotokakikyosekko is effective for fever relief with suppression of disease progression in COVID-19 patients. 16 investigated the efficacy and safety of keishibukuryogan for the treatment of hot flashes in prostate cancer patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy. 6 found that Goshuyuto reduced the monthly intake of anti-headache drugs and improved pain status in patients with 20-year history of medication overuse headache. 9 evaluated the therapeutic potential of daisaikoto for treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through modification of the liver and stool metabolome and microbiome. 20 explored the clinical effectiveness and safety of TJ-116 bukuryoingohangekobokuto for anxiety and postoperative water brash in esophageal cancer patients. 1 systematically reviewed the efficacy and safety of tea tree oil for human health. 15 investigated the involvement of immune responses and noradrenergic function in the inhibitory action of maoto, a traditional Japanese medicine used to treat upper respiratory tract infections. 19 showed that Kamikihito enhances cognitive functions and reward-related behaviors of aged C57BL/6J mice in an automated behavioral assay system. 12 demonstrated that Hochuekkito restored the decline in liver mitochondria metabolic function in aged mice with malnutrition.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Kampo has been shown to be effective for various symptoms and diseases, including arthritis, pain, muscle atrophy, cognitive dysfunction, anxiety, hot flashes, headache, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory disorders, urinary disorders, fatigue, loss of appetite, anemia, weakened immune system, and decreased metabolic function. 7 , 11 , 14 , 22 , 3 , 10 , 5 , 17 , 8 , 16 , 6 , 9 , 20 , 1 , 15 , 19 , 12

Risks Summary

Although generally considered safe, Kampo medicines are not without risks. Side effects can include gastrointestinal symptoms, allergic reactions, drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. 1 showed that topical application of tea tree oil in concentrations of 25% or higher can cause irritation and inflammation.

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities

Multiple studies have shown the potential effectiveness of Kampo for a wide range of symptoms and diseases. These studies also address the safety of Kampo medicines.

Differences

The specific types of Kampo medicines, target symptoms and diseases, study designs, methodologies, and evaluation metrics vary across different studies.

Consistency and Contradictions in Results

While there is consistency in research results indicating the effectiveness of Kampo, there are also contradictions. For example, while Ninjin'yoeito has shown improvement in cognitive function and muscle performance in multiple studies, the magnitude and mechanisms of these effects vary across different studies. This may be influenced by differences in study design, target populations, and evaluation metrics.

Considerations for Real-World Application

It is crucial to use Kampo under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-medicating with Kampo can be dangerous. Kampo medicines are combinations of herbs, and their effectiveness can vary depending on individual constitution and symptoms. It is also important to be aware of the possibility of interactions with other medications. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any Kampo medicine.

Limitations of Current Research

There is still a lack of sufficient research on the effectiveness of Kampo. In particular, large-scale clinical trials involving human subjects are insufficient. The mechanisms of action of Kampo medicines are not fully understood.

Future Research Directions

To confirm the effectiveness and safety of Kampo, large-scale clinical trials involving human subjects need to be conducted. Further basic research is also necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of action of Kampo medicines.

Conclusion

Several studies have shown the potential effectiveness of Kampo for various symptoms and diseases. However, there is still insufficient research on the effectiveness and safety of Kampo. Self-medicating with Kampo can be dangerous. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any Kampo medicine.