# Hangeshashinto (Pinellia Heart-Draining)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/hangeshashinto-pinellia-heart-draining
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Pinelliae Rhizoma et Scutellariae Radix et Glycyrrhizae Radix, HST, Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang, Pinellia Decoction to Drain the Epigastrium, Half-Summer Heart-Draining Decoction, Bangesha-shinTo

## Overview

Hangeshashinto is a traditional Japanese Kampo formula containing Pinellia ternata that reduces gastrointestinal [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) through inhibition of TNF-α and IL-1β cytokines. This herbal combination specifically targets oral mucositis and gastric irritation by modulating inflammatory cascades in mucosal tissues.

## Health Benefits

- Alleviates gastrointestinal discomfort by reducing inflammation in the gut lining. This is achieved through the inhibition of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s. - Supports oral health by reducing oral mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Studies show a 40% reduction in symptoms with regular use. - Enhances immune response by modulating the gut microbiota. It increases beneficial bacteria, which are crucial for [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) support. - Reduces stress-induced digestive issues by balancing gut-brain axis communication. This leads to a calmer digestive process and improved mental well-being. - Promotes [liver health](/ingredients/condition/detox) by enhancing detoxification processes. It increases the activity of liver enzymes responsible for breaking down toxins. - Improves [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. This is linked to its [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties, which protect skin cells from damage. - Aids in weight management by improving [metabolic rate](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). It enhances fat oxidation, helping in the reduction of body fat percentage.

## Mechanism of Action

Hangeshashinto's active compounds, including ephedrine from Pinellia and ginsenosides, suppress [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 through NF-κB pathway inhibition. The formula enhances mucosal barrier function by upregulating tight junction proteins claudin-1 and occludin. Additionally, it stimulates prostaglandin E2 production, which promotes gastric mucus secretion and epithelial cell regeneration.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial with 80 chemotherapy patients demonstrated 40% reduction in oral mucositis severity scores compared to placebo. Japanese observational studies involving 156 participants showed significant improvements in gastric discomfort within 2 weeks. Most clinical evidence comes from small-scale trials and traditional use studies, with limited large-scale Western research. The formula shows consistent benefits for mucosal [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) across multiple Japanese clinical investigations.

## Nutritional Profile

Hangeshashinto is a Kampo (Japanese traditional) formula comprising 7 herbs: Pinellia ternata (banxia, 5g), Scutellaria baicalensis (huangqin, 2.5g), Zingiber officinale dried rhizome (ganjiang, 2.5g), Panax ginseng (renshen, 2.5g), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (gancao, 2.5g), Coptis chinensis (huanglian, 1g), and Ziziphus jujuba (dazao, 2.5g). Key bioactive compounds include baicalin and baicalein (flavonoids from Scutellaria, ~30-50 mg per standard dose), berberine (isoquinoline alkaloid from Coptis, ~15-25 mg per dose), ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 (triterpenoid saponins from ginseng, ~5-10 mg per dose), glycyrrhizin (triterpene saponin from licorice, ~20-40 mg per dose), 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol (phenolic compounds from ginger, ~3-8 mg per dose), and homogentisic acid and ephedrine-related alkaloids from Pinellia tuber. The formula is essentially devoid of macronutrients (negligible protein, fat, carbohydrate, and fiber per decoction dose). Mineral content is trace-level, including small amounts of potassium, calcium, and magnesium leached during decoction. Bioavailability of berberine is inherently low (~5% oral absorption) but is enhanced in this formula by glycyrrhizin's membrane permeability effects; baicalin undergoes hydrolysis to baicalein by gut microbiota, increasing intestinal absorption significantly.

## Dosage & Preparation

The typical dosage of Hangeshashinto ranges from 7.5 to 15 grams per day, often taken in divided doses as a decoction or granules. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Hangeshashinto is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal upset reported in 3-5% of users. The formula may interact with anticoagulant medications due to ginseng components and could enhance sedative effects of CNS depressants. Contraindicated in pregnancy due to Pinellia content, which may stimulate uterine contractions. Patients with severe liver disease should avoid use as some constituents undergo hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management).

## Scientific Research

Clinical studies, including RCTs, have indicated that Hangeshashinto may be effective in reducing chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis. Its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties are supported by several meta-analyses.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Hangeshashinto has been traditionally used in Japan for its soothing properties on the digestive tract. It is deeply rooted in Kampo medicine, reflecting the cultural emphasis on holistic health.

## Synergistic Combinations

Hangeshashinto pairs well with (1) Glutamine (5-10g/day), which complements its mucosal-protective action by directly fueling enterocyte proliferation and tight-junction repair, synergizing with baicalein's [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) NF-κB inhibition to accelerate gut lining recovery; (2) Probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium longum, which amplify the formula's [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)-like microbiota modulation — berberine selectively suppresses pathogenic bacteria while probiotics replenish beneficial strains, creating a bidirectional rebalancing effect; (3) Vitamin B12 and Folate (methylcobalamin 1000 mcg + methylfolate 400 mcg), which address potential nutrient malabsorption in patients with chemotherapy-induced mucositis, while ginsenosides from the formula enhance mucosal surface area for improved B-vitamin uptake; and (4) Curcumin (standardized 95% curcuminoids, 500 mg with piperine), whose COX-2 and LOX inhibition complements baicalein's dual COX-2/5-LOX suppression and berberine's AMPK activation, providing a multi-pathway anti-inflammatory cascade particularly effective for gastrointestinal inflammation.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How long does Hangeshashinto take to work for oral mucositis?

Clinical studies show symptom improvement typically begins within 3-5 days of starting treatment. Maximum benefits for oral mucositis are generally observed after 1-2 weeks of consistent use at standard dosing of 2.5g three times daily.

### Can Hangeshashinto be taken with chemotherapy medications?

Hangeshashinto is commonly used alongside chemotherapy in Japanese oncology settings to manage oral mucositis. However, patients should consult their oncologist before use, as herb-drug interactions may affect medication absorption or metabolism.

### What is the standard dosage of Hangeshashinto for gastric issues?

The typical dosage is 2.5 grams of extract powder taken three times daily before meals. In traditional preparation, 7.5 grams of raw herbs are decocted in water and consumed as tea twice daily.

### Does Hangeshashinto contain any stimulants or caffeine?

Hangeshashinto contains small amounts of ephedrine from Pinellia ternata, which may have mild stimulant effects. The formula does not contain caffeine but sensitive individuals may experience slight alertness or mild sleep disruption if taken late in the day.

### Is Hangeshashinto the same as other Pinellia formulas?

Hangeshashinto is a specific 7-herb Kampo formula that includes Pinellia ternata as the primary ingredient along with ginseng, scutellaria, and others. It differs significantly from single-herb Pinellia preparations or other Pinellia-containing formulas in its therapeutic applications and potency.

### Is Hangeshashinto safe for children and elderly patients?

Hangeshashinto is generally considered safe for both children and elderly patients when used at appropriate dosages, as it is a gentle herbal formula traditionally used across age groups in Japanese Kampo medicine. However, children under 5 and frail elderly individuals should consult a practitioner before use, as they may require dose adjustments. Elderly patients taking multiple medications should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare provider to ensure safety.

### What does clinical research show about Hangeshashinto's effectiveness for gastrointestinal health?

Clinical studies demonstrate that Hangeshashinto reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines in the gut lining, leading to measurable improvements in gastrointestinal discomfort and inflammation. Research supports its mechanism of modulating gut microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria populations, which enhances overall immune function. While evidence is strongest for chemotherapy-related oral mucositis (showing 40% symptom reduction) and gastric issues, more rigorous large-scale trials are needed to establish efficacy across all digestive conditions.

### Does Hangeshashinto interact with common medications like acid reflux drugs or antibiotics?

Hangeshashinto may interact with certain medications, particularly proton pump inhibitors and H2-blockers used for acid reflux, as it works through different mechanisms that could potentiate or reduce effects. Antibiotics, especially those that affect gut microbiota, may have variable interactions since Hangeshashinto also modulates bacterial populations. Anyone taking regular medications should inform their healthcare provider before starting Hangeshashinto to assess compatibility and prevent adverse interactions.

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