Effects of ku‐oketsu and seinetsu Kampo medicines on rosacea‐like skin symptoms induced by steroid in mice

Abstract

AimRosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by consistent erythema, papules, pustules, telangiectasias, and recurrent hot flashes, mainly on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Many palliative treatment options are available for this condition; currently, no radical treatment option is available. However, improvement has been observed in some cases after the use of Kampo medicine. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of Jumi‐Haidokuto (JHT) and a mixture of Keishi‐Bukuryo‐gan‐ka‐Yokuinin (KBY) and JHT on steroid‐induced rosacea in mice.MethodsClobetasol propionate ointment was applied to the mice for 10 days and then the mice were provided food mixed with JHT and JHT + KBY for 28 days. Subsequently, the average velocity of capillary flow, area of the purpura, histopathologic features, and fecal metabolome were investigated.ResultsRecovery of the capillary flow velocity, reduction in the area of purpura, and restoration of the epidermal features were observed in JHT‐ and JHT + KBY‐fed mice. The improvement in circulatory disturbances observed after JHT and JHT + KBY administration might have contributed to the reduction in telangiectasias and erythema. Recovery of the skin barrier system by both Kampo medicine might be the key factor of ameliorating rosacea‐like symptoms.