White Atractylodes
Also known as: White Atractylodes, Bai Zhu, Atractylodes macrocephala
Overview
White Atractylodes, scientifically known as *Atractylodes macrocephala* Koidz., is the dried rhizome of a plant widely utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is primarily employed as an adjunctive herbal medicine, frequently combined with other herbs or conventional treatments, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders and supportive care in cancer patients. In TCM, it is believed to strengthen the spleen, dry dampness, and enhance qi (vital energy). Research on White Atractylodes is growing, with an increasing number of clinical trials and meta-analyses, predominantly from China. While the quality of evidence varies, some systematic reviews and meta-analyses provide quantitative efficacy data, suggesting its potential benefits in specific clinical contexts.
Benefits
White Atractylodes shows promising evidence as an adjunct therapy, particularly in cancer and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): - **Cancer Adjunct Therapy:** A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving over 2,100 cancer patients demonstrated that White Atractylodes, when combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), significantly improved the objective response rate (ORR) (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.27–1.57, p < 0.00001) and disease control rate (DCR) (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.13–1.27, p < 0.00001). This indicates an enhanced tumor response, with clinically meaningful effect sizes. The evidence quality for this benefit is moderate to high, though most studies were conducted in China. - **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):** A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis found that a formula containing White Atractylodes and *Paeonia lactiflora* provided symptom relief in IBS patients when compared to Western medication. While promising, this finding is subject to some noted publication bias, suggesting the need for further robust research. Benefits observed in trials typically manifest within weeks to months, aligning with the duration of chemotherapy cycles or IBS treatment regimens.
How it works
White Atractylodes contains bioactive compounds, such as atractylenolides, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and gastrointestinal motility-regulating properties. In the context of cancer, it is hypothesized to enhance chemotherapy efficacy by modulating immune responses and potentially mitigating side effects, although the precise molecular targets and mechanisms are still under investigation. While specific absorption and bioavailability data are limited, its traditional use and clinical trial administration are primarily via oral routes.
Side effects
Overall, White Atractylodes appears to have a favorable safety profile, particularly when used as an adjunct therapy. No serious adverse events were reported in the meta-analyses reviewed. Common side effects are not extensively documented but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been conclusively identified, but caution is advised when combining it with chemotherapy, and medical supervision is essential. Safety data for special populations, such as pregnant women or individuals with severe liver or kidney impairment, are insufficient, and its use in these groups is not recommended without expert medical advice.
Dosage
Standardized dosing for White Atractylodes has not been definitively established, as clinical trials have utilized various formulations and dosages. In traditional Chinese medicine practice, it is commonly prepared as a decoction, with typical daily doses ranging from 6 to 15 grams of the dried rhizome. It is frequently combined with other herbs, and the optimal dose and timing can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and its integration with conventional therapies. There is no clearly defined maximum safe dose, and adherence to dosages used in clinical trial protocols is generally recommended for safety and efficacy.
FAQs
Is White Atractylodes effective alone?
Most scientific evidence supports the use of White Atractylodes in combination with other herbs or conventional treatments like chemotherapy, rather than as a standalone monotherapy.
Is it safe to use White Atractylodes during chemotherapy?
Studies suggest it can be safe and may enhance chemotherapy effects, but it is crucial to use it under strict medical supervision due to potential interactions and individual patient variations.
How soon can benefits be expected from White Atractylodes?
Benefits typically become apparent within weeks to months, depending on the specific condition being treated and the overall treatment regimen it is part of.
Are there any known interactions with other medications?
No major drug interactions have been definitively documented, but as with any supplement, caution is advised when combining it with other medications, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2024.1431381/full – This 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 RCTs found that White Atractylodes combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved objective response rate and disease control rate in cancer patients, suggesting its potential to enhance tumor response. The study highlights its role as an effective adjunct therapy.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11521787/ – This article, likely a duplicate or related publication to the Frontiers in Oncology study, also discusses the efficacy of Atractylodes macrocephala in cancer treatment. It reinforces the findings regarding improved response rates when used alongside conventional chemotherapy.
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/199172-atractylodes-macrocephala-paeonia-lactiflora-class-formula-for-the-treatment-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome-a-systematic-review-with-meta-analysis-and-trial-sequential-analysis.pdf – This 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis investigated a formula containing Atractylodes macrocephala and Paeonia lactiflora for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It concluded that the herbal combination showed symptom relief compared to Western medication, though it noted some publication bias.
- https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/5/12/e007291 – This 2015 systematic review, while not directly on White Atractylodes, assessed various TCM herbs for hypertension. It concluded that due to poor methodological quality and bias in the included studies, no definite conclusions could be drawn, highlighting the need for higher quality research in TCM.
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