An Evidence-based Perspective of Hedyotis Diffusa or Oldenlandia Diffusa (Spreading Hedyotis) for Cancer Patients

Abstract

Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus), originally described in the Shen- nong’s Classic of Materia Medica two thousand years ago, is used as a Qi-tonifying herb in traditional Chinese medicine. It is an important ingredient in many herbal for- mulas used to treat a variety of symptoms and ailments including fatigue and rectal pro- lapse. The root of astragalus is rich in saponins and polysaccharides. Modern research suggests antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and cytostatic properties. Animal and anec- dotal human data show that astragalus reduces immunosuppression, a side effect of chemotherapy and it may also enhance the effects of such treatments. Whereas oral and parenteral preparations have been developed in Asia, products containing astragalus are consumed as dietary supplements in the West. Several formulas containing astraga- lus have been studied in cancer patients. Data indicate that they are safe to use in con- junction with chemotherapy and reduce treatment associated adverse effects. Based on existing evidence, there is also substantial interest in developing astragalus-based preparations for certain cancers. Although all products studied to date contain astraga- lus as the main ingredient, the variation across formulas makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Future studies should address this issue. Astragalus is generally considered safe for traditional use, but the potential for herb-drug interactions exists because botanicals contain biologically active compounds. This chapter presents infor- mation about the use of astragalus in traditional medicine and summarizes existing scientific evidence of its benefits and limitations as an adjuvant cancer treatment. 3.1 Introduction Many cancer patients use dietary supplements to enhance the likelihood of c