Research progress of Chinese herbal medicines and classic prescriptions in the treatment of COPD based on the TCM theory and medicinal characteristics

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease with a complex pathogenesis, which causes the lack of precise and personalized prevention, control, and treatment approaches in clinical practice. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with multiple components acting on multiple targets plays a role in the prevention and treatment of COPD. After evaluating the treatment of cough, dyspnea, and lung distension based on syndrome differentiation in TCM, we summarized the commonly used TCM preparations for treating COPD. These preparations are mainly composed of medicines for clearing interior heat and releasing exterior, tonifying, activating blood and resolving stasis, resolving phlegm, relieving cough and breathlessness, and regulating Qi movement. Because all of them contain a variety of active ingredients such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenols, we analyzed the mechanisms of the classic prescriptions alone or in combination with other medicines or therapeutic methods. These mechanisms involve counteracting inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis, inhibiting apoptosis, alleviating airway remodeling, and enhancing immunity. Meantime, we summarized the existing problems in the treatment of COPD by TCM. This review provides a scientific basis for the research and treatment of COPD in the future.