Astracylodes rhizome
Also known as: Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., Baizhu, Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome, Atractylodes rhizome, Atractylodes macrocephala
Overview
Atractylodes macrocephala rhizome is the dried root of a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is primarily valued for its ability to strengthen the spleen and stomach and to dry dampness. The rhizome contains active compounds such as volatile oils, polysaccharides, and amino acids, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. It is commonly utilized for gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic atrophic gastritis, and is recognized for its potential to modulate intestinal microbiota. Research on Atractylodes macrocephala is moderately developed, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses, predominantly from Chinese clinical settings. While the quality of evidence varies, some high-quality meta-analyses support its efficacy, particularly in gastrointestinal symptom relief and as an adjunct in oncology.
Benefits
Atractylodes macrocephala offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly for gastrointestinal health and as an adjunct in cancer therapy. A meta-analysis of Atractylodes macrocephala-based formulas demonstrated significant improvement in global IBS symptoms compared to Western medications, showing relative risk reductions of approximately 20% with statistical significance (p < 0.05). This suggests strong evidence for its role in IBS symptom relief. Preclinical studies indicate its ability to promote gastrointestinal mucosal repair by reducing inflammatory markers like IL-8, NF-κB, and COX-2, and by aiding epithelial cell migration, providing good mechanistic support for its healing properties. Furthermore, polysaccharides from the rhizome have shown prebiotic-like effects, improving intestinal microbiota balance in animal models of metabolic gastrointestinal disorders. In oncology, systematic review data suggest that herbal combinations containing Atractylodes macrocephala can improve objective response rates and disease control rates in advanced gastric cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy, while also potentially reducing adverse effects. This indicates a promising role as an adjunctive therapy, though more high-quality human trials are needed.
How it works
Atractylodes macrocephala exerts its therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms. Its anti-inflammatory properties are mediated by the downregulation of key inflammatory pathways, including NF-κB and COX-2, and modulation of cytokines such as IL-8. It also enhances epithelial repair mechanisms by increasing E-cadherin expression and inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2/9), which are crucial for gastric mucosal healing. The polysaccharides present in the rhizome play a significant role in modulating gut microbiota composition, helping to restore microecological balance. Additionally, volatile oils and lactones contribute to the regulation of gastrointestinal motility and immune modulation. While absorption and bioavailability data are limited, it is believed that polysaccharides primarily exert local effects within the gut, with some systemic immune modulation.
Side effects
Atractylodes macrocephala rhizome is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects, though rare, may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or indigestion. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been consistently documented in high-quality studies. However, due to limited data, caution is advised for specific populations, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding women, as insufficient research exists to confirm safety in these groups. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should also exercise caution. While it may be used as an adjunct to chemotherapy, it should always be under medical supervision to ensure proper integration with conventional treatments and to monitor for any potential, albeit rare, interactions or adverse reactions. Overall, its safety profile appears favorable for short to medium-term use.
Dosage
There is no universally standardized dosage for Atractylodes macrocephala rhizome, as clinical trials have utilized various formulations and doses. In studies focusing on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), effective treatment durations typically ranged from 4 to 8 weeks, with herbal formulas containing Atractylodes rhizome. For polysaccharide extracts, doses in animal studies were determined to achieve specific biological effects, but human equivalent doses require further research. The form of administration, such as traditional decoctions, standardized extracts, or isolated polysaccharide fractions, can influence bioavailability and overall efficacy. While decoctions are traditional, standardized extracts may offer more consistent dosing. It is important to note that most clinical evidence supports its use within multi-herb formulas rather than as a standalone ingredient. Due to the variability in formulations and the lack of a single standardized dose, it is advisable to follow the recommendations of a qualified healthcare practitioner or the specific product guidelines.
FAQs
Is it safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests good safety for short to medium-term use (up to 8 weeks). However, long-term safety data are limited, and prolonged use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Can it be used alone or only in combination?
Most clinical evidence supports its use in combination with other herbs or conventional treatments, particularly for conditions like IBS and as an adjunct in cancer therapy, rather than as a standalone supplement.
How quickly do benefits appear?
Symptom improvement, particularly in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), is typically observed within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use.
Does it interact with chemotherapy?
Research suggests it may improve chemotherapy outcomes and reduce side effects. However, it should always be used under strict medical supervision when combined with chemotherapy.
Research Sources
- 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 systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (n>600 IBS patients) found that Atractylodes macrocephala-based formulas significantly improved global IBS symptoms compared to Western medications, with a relative risk reduction of approximately 20%. The study was a high-quality meta-analysis, though it noted potential publication bias and a predominance of Chinese populations.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2022.1102605/full – This animal study using a metabolic gastrointestinal disorder rat model demonstrated that polysaccharides from Atractylodes macrocephala improved intestinal microbiota diversity and balance. The findings suggest a prebiotic-like effect, alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms, though direct human extrapolation requires further research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11521787/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of various RCTs in gastric cancer patients indicated that Atractylodes-containing herbal combinations improved objective response rates and disease control rates when used as an adjunct to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The study highlights clinical relevance but notes heterogeneity in regimens and the need for more RCTs.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8595830/ – This review of in vivo experiments primarily in animal models elucidated the anti-inflammatory and mucosal repair mechanisms of Atractylodes macrocephala, including its effects on HSP70, NF-κB, and MMP inhibition. While providing good mechanistic evidence, it emphasizes the need for clinical trials to confirm human dosage and efficacy.
