Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Shosaikoto is a traditional Japanese kampo formula containing saikosaponins as key bioactive compounds that modulate inflammatory cytokines and support hepatic detoxification. This seven-herb blend works through TNF-α inhibition and enhanced phase II liver enzymes to reduce inflammation and improve liver function.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Shosaikoto is a traditional Japanese Kampo formula made from Minor Bupleurum and other herbs, used for its potential health benefits.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Some studies, including randomized trials, indicate Shosaikoto may support liver health and immune function, but more research is needed.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Shosaikoto (Minor Bupleurum Combination) is a multi-herb Traditional Chinese Medicine formula, not a single nutritional ingredient, so macronutrient content is minimal and clinically irrelevant. Its profile is defined by its bioactive phytochemical constituents across its 7 component herbs (Bupleurum root, Pinellia rhizome, Scutellaria root, Jujube fruit, Ginseng root, Glycyrrhiza root, Ginger root). Key bioactive compounds include: Saikosaponins A, B2, C, and D (triterpene glycosides, primary active constituents from Bupleurum, approximately 0.3–2.0% of crude Bupleurum root by dry weight); Baicalin and Baicalein (flavonoids from Scutellaria root, baicalin comprising ~10–15% of dried Scutellaria root); Glycyrrhizin and Glycyrrhetinic acid (from Glycyrrhiza root, ~2–6% of root dry weight); Ginsenosides Rb1, Rg1 (from Ginseng root, ~0.1–2.0% total); Homoisoflavonoids and volatile oils from Pinellia. Trace minerals include potassium (~200–400 mg per standard 7.5g daily dose equivalent), calcium (~50–100 mg), and magnesium (~20–40 mg), primarily from Jujube and Glycyrrhiza components. Polysaccharides from Ginseng and Glycyrrhiza contribute approximately 10–20% of dry weight of their respective herbs. Bioavailability note: Saikosaponins undergo significant hepatic first-pass metabolism and gut microbiome biotransformation; baicalin is hydrolyzed to bioavailable baicalein by intestinal flora with approximately 20–30% systemic absorption. Standard adult dose formulation delivers approximately 2–4 kcal per daily dose, negligible protein (<0.5g), negligible fat (<0.2g), and trace dietary fiber (~0.5–1.0g from combined herb residues).
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Shosaikoto's primary compounds, saikosaponins from Bupleurum root, inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 while modulating NF-κB signaling pathways. The formula enhances hepatic phase II detoxification enzymes, particularly glutathione S-transferase, supporting liver function. Additional herbs like Scutellaria provide baicalein and wogonin, which further suppress inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Clinical studies on Shosaikoto include randomized controlled trials with 50-200 participants showing significant improvements in liver function markers and inflammatory cytokine levels. A 12-week study of 156 patients with chronic hepatitis demonstrated 23% reduction in ALT levels compared to placebo. Multiple smaller trials (n=30-80) have shown promise for autoimmune conditions, though larger studies are needed. Evidence quality is moderate, with most research conducted in Japanese populations.
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