Codonopsis
Also known as: Codonopsis pilosula, Dang Shen, Poor Man's Ginseng
Overview
Codonopsis pilosula, known as Dang Shen or Poor Man's Ginseng, is a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Native to China and other parts of Asia, the root of the plant is primarily used for medicinal purposes. It is traditionally used to enhance vitality, improve respiratory function, and support overall health. Dang Shen is known for its adaptogenic properties, which are believed to help the body adapt to stress and promote balance. Research on Dang Shen is moderately mature, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses focusing on its use in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While there are several studies, the quality is variable due to methodological flaws identified in some trials. It is often used in herbal formulations combined with other traditional Chinese medicines.
Benefits
Dang Shen has shown promise in improving lung function and quality of life in patients with COPD. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that Dang Shen formulae improved lung function, as measured by forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), with a mean difference of 0.22 L (95% CI 0.13-0.31, p < 0.001) compared to conventional pharmacotherapy. The same review showed that Dang Shen formulae enhanced quality of life, as measured by the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, with a mean difference of -7.19 (95% CI -10.82 to -3.56, p < 0.001) compared to placebo, and -9.05 (95% CI -12.72 to -5.38, p < 0.001) when combined with conventional pharmacotherapy. Dang Shen formulae also increased the distance walked in 6 minutes by 51.43 meters (95% CI 30.06-72.80, p < 0.001) when combined with conventional pharmacotherapy. It may also help in reducing the frequency and days of COPD exacerbations.
How it works
The exact mechanisms of action are not fully elucidated, but Dang Shen is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. It may also influence water and electrolyte homeostasis. Dang Shen interacts with the respiratory system by improving lung function and reducing symptoms of COPD. An animal study suggested that Codonopsis Radix treatment increased water intake and urine production, indicating a potential effect on the renal system through its influence on water and electrolyte balance. The specific molecular targets are not well-defined in the available literature, and there is limited information on the absorption and bioavailability of Dang Shen's active components.
Side effects
Dang Shen formulae appear to be relatively safe, with low rates of adverse events. A systematic review reported that adverse events were not significantly different between the intervention and control groups. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, dry mouth, and insomnia. There is limited information on potential drug interactions, but it is used in combination with conventional pharmacotherapy for COPD without reported adverse interactions. No specific contraindications are mentioned in the reviewed studies. The safety and efficacy in special populations such as pregnant women, children, and elderly patients are not well-studied. More research is needed to fully understand its safety profile, especially in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose is not clearly defined in the literature, as the studies used various formulations and dosages. The optimal dosage ranges are also not established, but the studies included in the systematic reviews used a variety of Dang Shen formulae preparations. There is no reported maximum safe dose in the available literature. The timing of administration is not specified in the studies. Dang Shen is typically used in the form of herbal formulae, often combined with other traditional Chinese medicines. There is limited information on factors affecting absorption, and no specific cofactors are mentioned as required for the efficacy of Dang Shen.
FAQs
Is Dang Shen safe?
Dang Shen is generally considered safe, but more research is needed to fully understand its safety profile, especially in special populations like pregnant women and children.
When should I take Dang Shen?
There is no specific guidance on the timing of administration, but it is typically used as part of a broader treatment plan for COPD.
What results can I expect from taking Dang Shen?
Patients with COPD may expect improvements in lung function and quality of life when using Dang Shen formulae in conjunction with conventional pharmacotherapy.
Can Dang Shen replace conventional treatment for COPD?
No, Dang Shen should be used as a complementary therapy to conventional treatment for COPD, not as a replacement.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.5248 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 48 randomized controlled trials found that Dang Shen formulae improved lung function, quality of life, and reduced COPD exacerbations in patients with COPD. The review highlights the need for further high-quality research to support routine use outside of Chinese medicine practice due to methodological flaws identified in some trials.
- https://www.cell.com/heliyon/fulltext/S2405-8440(21)00838-0 – This animal study found that Codonopsis Radix treatment increased water intake and urine production in mice, suggesting an effect on water and electrolyte homeostasis. The study provides some insight into potential mechanisms but requires further human studies for confirmation, as the findings may not directly translate to humans.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25336444/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on the effects of Dang Shen in COPD patients. The study indicates improvements in lung function and quality of life, but also points out the need for higher quality research to validate these findings.
- https://www.tmrjournals.com/public/articlePDF/20240909/fd6d7cb59786ba7dfc667fd66dac2270.pdf – This review discusses the active ingredients of Codonopsis pilosula and their potential roles in combination therapies, including anti-tumor effects. The review is useful for understanding the chemical constituents and potential therapeutic applications but lacks direct clinical evidence.
Supplements Containing Codonopsis
LifeEssence
Pure Essence Labs
One 'N' Only Men's Formula
Pure Essence Labs
Longevity Women's Formula
Pure Essence Labs
Ginseng Master
L.A. Naturals
Ginseng Master
L.A. Naturals
Mental Master
L.A. Naturals
Sleep
QES Formulas
Thermal Infusion X2
MET-Rx
Intestinal Bowel Soother
Renew Life