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Pinellia Ternata Extract

Also known as: Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Breit., Banxia, Pinellia tuber, PTex, Pinellia ternata

Overview

Pinellia ternata extract is derived from the tuber of the *Pinellia ternata* plant, a botanical widely utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Historically, it has been employed for its antiemetic, antitussive, sedative, anti-inflammatory, and gastrointestinal properties. Modern research is exploring its potential in managing conditions such as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), insomnia, cognitive impairment, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The research landscape for *P. ternata* is moderately mature, with a growing number of clinical trials and systematic reviews, predominantly from East Asian research. While some meta-analyses exist, the overall evidence quality can be variable due to study heterogeneity and methodological limitations, indicating a need for more rigorous, high-quality trials.

Benefits

Pinellia ternata extract, often in TCM formulations, demonstrates several evidence-based benefits: * **Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV):** A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) indicated that *P. ternata*-containing TCM, when combined with 5-HT3 receptor antagonists (5-HT3RAs), was significantly more effective and safer than 5-HT3RAs alone for CINV management. This combination reduced the incidence of nausea and vomiting and improved safety profiles, though the authors emphasized the need for higher-quality trials to confirm these findings. * **Insomnia:** A 2021 meta-analysis of 14 RCTs (910 participants) found that Banxia formulae significantly improved total effective rates, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores (mean difference −1.05, 95% CI −1.63 to −0.47), and traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores compared to conventional Western medicines. Notably, adverse events were fewer in the Banxia groups (RR=0.48, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.93), suggesting a favorable safety profile. * **Cognitive Function:** A 2024 animal study showed that aqueous *P. ternata* extract (PTex) improved performance in the novel object recognition test (NORT) in mice with chronic cerebral blood flow reduction, suggesting potential cognitive benefits via anti-inflammatory effects in the brain. However, no significant improvement was observed in the Y-maze test, indicating selective cognitive domain effects. Human data are currently lacking. * **Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):** A 2017 systematic review suggested that Modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction (MBXD), a formula containing *P. ternata*, might offer benefits in GERD treatment. However, the evidence was inconclusive due to significant study limitations, requiring further robust research.

How it works

Pinellia ternata exerts its effects through various mechanisms, primarily involving anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and sedative actions. Bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and polysaccharides, are believed to be responsible for these effects. The extract modulates neurotransmitter systems, such as serotonin pathways, which are crucial in regulating nausea and vomiting. It also interacts with inflammatory pathways in the central nervous system, contributing to its potential cognitive benefits. Active compounds demonstrate moderate to good oral bioavailability (≥30%), facilitating systemic distribution. Molecular targets include 5-HT3 receptors, which are key for its antiemetic properties, and inflammatory cytokines in brain tissue, relevant to its cognitive and anti-inflammatory effects.

Side effects

Pinellia ternata is generally considered safe when used within traditional formulations and recommended dosages. The most commonly reported side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort or occasional allergic reactions, which are infrequent. Meta-analyses, particularly in the context of insomnia treatment, have reported fewer adverse events in groups receiving Banxia formulae compared to those on conventional Western medicines. While no major drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established, caution is advised when *P. ternata* is combined with other central nervous system (CNS)-active drugs due to its sedative properties, or with chemotherapy agents, given its use in CINV management. Specific safety data regarding its use in pregnant women, lactating mothers, and pediatric populations are currently insufficient, and therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without expert medical guidance.

Dosage

Specific dosing for Pinellia ternata varies considerably depending on the formulation, the intended therapeutic purpose, and individual patient factors. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice, it is typically administered as part of complex herbal decoctions or standardized extracts. For chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), clinical trials have utilized *P. ternata*-containing formulas in combination with standard antiemetics, with exact doses varying across studies. Similarly, insomnia studies have employed Banxia formulae in traditional dosages, often standardized according to the Chinese pharmacopeia. Due to the variability in preparations and indications, there are no universally established optimal dosing ranges or maximum safe doses for isolated *P. ternata* extract. Further rigorous clinical validation is required to standardize dosing guidelines, establish upper limits, and define safety thresholds for specific applications.

FAQs

Is *Pinellia ternata* extract safe for chemotherapy patients?

Current evidence suggests it may be safer and more effective when combined with 5-HT3RAs for CINV, but higher-quality trials are needed for definitive confirmation.

Can it improve sleep?

A meta-analysis supports the efficacy of Banxia formulae in improving insomnia outcomes with fewer side effects compared to conventional drugs.

Does it improve cognition?

Preliminary animal data indicate potential cognitive benefits, particularly in specific domains, but human studies are currently lacking.

Are there risks?

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions are possible, but no major safety concerns have been widely reported in reviewed clinical trials.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37099981/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 RCTs found that *P. ternata*-containing TCM combined with 5-HT3RAs was significantly more effective and safer than 5-HT3RAs alone for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The study highlighted a reduction in nausea and vomiting incidence and improved safety profiles, while also calling for higher-quality trials to confirm these findings due to heterogeneity.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8175169/ – This meta-analysis of 14 RCTs (910 participants) demonstrated that Banxia formulae significantly improved insomnia outcomes, including total effective rate and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores, compared to conventional Western medicines. The study also reported fewer adverse events in the Banxia groups, suggesting a favorable safety profile for insomnia treatment.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/09731296241242211 – This animal study investigated the effects of aqueous *P. ternata* extract (PTex) in mice with chronic cerebral blood flow reduction. It found that PTex improved performance in the novel object recognition test (NORT) and reduced brain inflammation, suggesting potential cognitive benefits. However, no significant improvement was observed in the Y-maze test, indicating selective cognitive domain effects and the need for human trials.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-77431-1 – This source discusses the oral bioavailability of active compounds from *P. ternata*, indicating that many constituents have moderate to good oral bioavailability (≥30%). This supports the systemic effects observed with *P. ternata* extracts and provides a basis for understanding its pharmacological actions within the body.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2017/9591319 – This systematic review explored the potential benefits of Modified Banxia Xiexin Decoction (MBXD), a formula containing *P. ternata*, for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While it suggested potential, the evidence was ultimately inconclusive due to significant limitations in the included studies, highlighting the need for more robust research in this area.