Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 57-70 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 65 6.3 Achyranthes bidentata in multi-herbal formulation The use of Achyranthes bidentata in multi-herbal formulations has been a common practice in traditional Chinese medicine. These formulations often aim to leverage the combined effects of multiple herbs to achieve better therapeutic outcomes. For instance, a review on the genus Achyranthes highlighted its widespread use in multi-herbal formulations for treating various ailments, including bone and joint disorders (He et al., 2017). The study emphasized that the polysaccharides, polypeptides, and triterpenoid saponins in Achyranthes bidentata contribute significantly to its therapeutic effects, which are further enhanced when used in combination with other herbs. Another study demonstrated that a polysaccharide fromAchyranthes bidentata, when used in a multi-herbal formulation, significantly improved bone mineral content and biomechanical properties in OVX rats, suggesting its potential in comprehensive osteoporosis treatment strategies (Zhang et al., 2019). Li et al. (2019) used the Bushen Huoxue Recipe (including Epimedium, Cibotium barometz, Achyranthes bidentata, etc.) to treat osteoporosis. The results showed that the combination of Chinese medicine for tonifying the kidney and activating blood circulation with conventional basic treatment can significantly improve abnormal bone metabolism, significantly increase bone density, and significantly improve the quality of life of patients. Wu (2019) used Bushen Zhuanggu Decoction (including Drynaria fortunei, Rehmannia glutinosa, Achyranthes bidentata, etc.) combined with Western medicine to treat osteoporosis in type 2 diabetes (kidney yang deficiency). The results showed that its efficacy was better than that of the control group, and the results of related bone metabolism indicators FPG, 2 h PG, HbAlc, and IGF-1 were better than those of the control group. Achyranthes bidentata shows considerable promise both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other herbal medicines for bone and joint disorders. Its efficacy in improving bone health, coupled with its potential for synergistic effects in multi-herbal formulations, makes it a valuable component in the treatment of these conditions. 7 Future Perspectives 7.1 Potential for new therapeutic applications Achyranthes bidentata has shown significant promise in the treatment of bone and joint disorders, particularly osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The polysaccharides and oligosaccharides derived from Achyranthes bidentata have demonstrated osteoprotective effects by increasing bone mineral density and improving bone microarchitecture in various animal models. Additionally, the herb's active compounds, such as quercetin, baicalein, and berberine, have been identified as potential therapeutic agents for osteoarthritis due to their anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating properties (Chen et al., 2020). Future research could explore the application of these compounds in other bone-related conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and bone fractures, to expand the therapeutic scope of Achyranthes bidentata. 7.2 Advances in drug delivery systems The efficacy of Achyranthes bidentata in treating bone and joint disorders could be further enhanced through advances in drug delivery systems. Current studies have primarily focused on oral administration of extracts and polysaccharides 345. However, novel delivery methods such as nanoparticle-based systems, targeted delivery to bone tissues, and sustained-release formulations could improve the bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes of Achyranthes bidentata compounds. For instance, encapsulating the active polysaccharides in biodegradable nanoparticles could facilitate targeted delivery to osteoporotic sites, thereby maximizing their bone-forming and anti-resorptive effects (Zhang et al., 2019). 7.3 Research gaps and future directions Despite the promising results, several research gaps need to be addressed to fully realize the clinical potential of Achyranthes bidentata. Firstly, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying its osteoprotective and anti-osteoarthritic effects remain to be elucidated. While some studies have identified the involvement of pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK (Weng et al., 2014; Fu et al., 2021), further research is needed to map out the complete signaling networks and target proteins. Secondly, most studies have been conducted in animal models, and there is a lack of clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of Achyranthes bidentatain humans.
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