Kampo Medicine for the Management of Cancer-Related Cachexia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by weight loss and muscle wasting, which severely impacts quality of life and survival. Kampo, a traditional Japanese medicine system, utilizes herbal formulas like Hochu-ekki-to to combat cachexia. This review assesses their efficacy.

Methods: A systematic search of English and Japanese medical databases was conducted for clinical trials. We included studies that evaluated the effects of Kampo formulas on cachexia-related outcomes, such as body weight, appetite, muscle mass, and inflammatory markers, in cancer patients.

Results: The review included 11 clinical studies. The formula Hochu-ekki-to was the most studied intervention. Patients receiving it as an adjunct therapy showed significant improvements in appetite, body weight maintenance, and quality of life scores compared to control groups. A reduction in inflammatory cytokines was also reported.

Discussion: Kampo formulas appear to counteract cancer cachexia by improving appetite and modulating the systemic inflammatory response. This provides a multi-target approach that is distinct from single-agent nutritional or pharmacological interventions.

Conclusion: Kampo medicine, particularly Hochu-ekki-to, is a promising therapy for the management of cancer-related cachexia.