• Basic Info

Category

SYNONYMS

Astragalus root, Atractylodes lancea rhizome, bupleurum root, cimicifuga rhizome, citrus unshiu peel, ginger rhizome, ginseng root, glycyrrhiza root, herbal therapy, herbs, Japanese angelica root, jujube fruit, Kampo, licorice, TJ 41, TJ 43, TCM, traditional Chinese medicine.

BACKGROUND

Hochu-ekki-to is a mixture of ten raw Japanese herbs, which are mixed in set proportions. Japanese experts claim that Hochu-ekki-to will relieve fatigue, boost immunity, and help relieve the symptoms of chemotherapy. Currently, this herbal formula is being used in research to treat patients who are resistant to conventional forms of antibiotics. There is no English translation of Hochu-ekki-to.

The herbs in this formula include astragalus root, ginseng root, Atractylodes lancea rhizome, Japanese angelica root, bupleurum root, jujube fruit, citrus unshiu peel, glycyrrhiza root (licorice), cimicifuga rhizome, and ginger rhizome.

THEORY/EVIDENCE

Research on Hochu-ekki-to is more extensive than other Japanese herbal formulas. However, a majority of these studies have been performed on mice or human cell cultures rather than humans. One example of this was an article in the Journal of Rheumatology where Hochu-ekki-to suppressed arthritis in mice.

Based on these preliminary results, further human clinical trials are warranted because the available studies on humans have been sparse and as of yet, inconclusive. One study, published in 1994, found that this herbal prescription might help boost the immunological response in elderly persons. Regardless, the American Cancer Society states that very little evidence exists showing the efficacy of Hochu-ekki-to for any condition.

AUTHOR INFORMATION

This information has been edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

BIBLIOGRAPHY

American Cancer Society: Kampo. 10 May 2006. Prolotherapy.Com. 9 May 2006. www.cancer.org

Hai le X, Kogure T, Niizawa A, et al. Suppressive effect of hochu-ekki-to on collagen induced arthritis in DBA1J mice. J Rheumatol. 2002 Aug;29(8):1601-8.

Kuroiwa A, Liou S, Yan H, et al. Effect of a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, hochu-ekki-to (Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi Tang), on immunity in elderly persons. Int Immunopharmacol. 2004 Feb;4(2):317-24.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.