The effect of traditional Japanese medicine (Kampo) on gastrointestinal function

Abstract

Traditional Japanese medicine (Kampo) is used to treat various disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in Japan, where it is fully integrated into the modern healthcare system. Recently, scientific research on herbal medicine in Japan has been reported in English journals. The objective of the current review is to introduce two traditional Japanese medicines and to provide evidenced-based information regarding their use. Daikenchuto, which consists of three different herbs, is the most frequently prescribed traditional Japanese medicine in Japan. Daikenchuto stimulates gastrointestinal motility though a neural reflex involving presynaptic cholinergic and 5-HT3 receptors. Daikenchuto improves postoperative bowel motility and postoperative ileus. Furthermore, it is reported to cause an increase in gastrointestinal hormones (motilin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, and calcitonin gene-related peptide) and intestinal blood flow. Rikkunshito, a traditional Japanese medicine consisting of eight herbs, is thought to stimulate gastrointestinal motility and ghrelin secretion. Rikkunshito is effective for improving the symptoms of functional dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and cisplatin-induced anorexia and vomiting. Traditional Japanese medicine has the potential to be used successfully in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Details regarding the physiological and clinical effects of traditional Japanese medicine must be further examined in order to become more widely accepted in other countries.

Ghrelin Level and Body Weight Loss After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

“…An infusion of ghrelin increases circulating plasma growth hormone in rodents and humans [7][8][9]. However, other actions of ghrelin have emerged, such as a role in glucose metabolism and insulin release [10,11], cardiovascular actions [12,13], and an effect on food intake and control of energy balance [14][15][16]. Intravenous ghrelin injection has been found to accelerate gastric emptying after a meal and improve symptoms in dyspeptic humans [17].…”

Clinical pharmacology of daikenchuto assessed by transit analysis using radiopaque markers in patients with colon cancer undergoing open surgery: a multicenter double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study (JFMC39-0902 additional study)

“…Since 1986, when the prescription of DKT was included in the national health insurance cover by the Japanese government, DKT has been widely administered to accelerate the recovery of GI function after abdominal surgery and postoperative ileus. In a study of upper GI tract motility, Mochiki et al [34] found that DKT induced phasic contractions in the pylorus, duodenum, and jejunum in conscious dogs. DKT also improved intestinal motility in patients undergoing total gastrectomy with jejunal pouch interposition [35].…”

A case of unresectable pancreatic cancer successfully treated with Gosha-jinki-gan for muscle cramps related to administration of S-1

“…They are intended not only to help recover the natural balance of the human body, but also treat the body's impairments, such as indigestion and fatigue 4) . Based on this concept, several kinds of Kampo formula have been widely used for palliative care including cancer associated symptoms and adverse effect of chemotherapy in Japan 5) .…”