Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:

• Triterpenoid saponins: saikosaponins have been reported to possess various pharmacological activities, including anti-platelet, anti-hepatitis, anti-hepatoma, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immune-modulating effects. Will also enhance the activity of corticosterone by inducing liver enzymes involved in the activation of corticosterone and by stimulating adrenocortical function, with effects leading to an overall anti-inflammatory action.
• Oral doses transiently increase blood glucose, bile output and bile salt content (and thus lower cholesterol). It has been suggested that saikosaponnins and saikogenins lower cholesterol by increasing cholesterol excretion in the bile and may increase hepatic protein synthesis.
• Polysaccharides (bupleuran) have been shown to induce the up-regulate macrophage activity, stimulate the secretion of IL-6 and partially contribute towards the enhancement of IgM secretion.

Pharmacy:

• Decoction
• Capsules
• Tincture

Safety & Toxicity Concerns:

• Can be sedating in some individuals and may cause stomach upset.

Interactions:

• Theoretical interactions with NSAIDs, antibiotics and immunosuppressants.