International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 315-323 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 318 4.2 Antioxidant activity The antioxidant properties of Rehmannia glutinosa are well-documented. The steamed roots of the herb have been shown to enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in mouse auditory cells (Yu et al., 2006). These enzymes play a critical role in scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is beneficial in preventing cellular damage and aging. 4.3 Immunomodulatory functions Rehmannia glutinosa exhibits strong immunomodulatory effects. Polysaccharides derived from the herb have been found to enhance the proliferation and activation of lymphocytes and dendritic cells, boosting the immune response. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that these polysaccharides increase the production of cytokines and enhance the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, thereby improving the body's defense against infections and cancer (Xu et al., 2017; Feng et al., 2020). 4.4 Neuroprotective effects Rehmannia glutinosa also has notable neuroprotective properties. The iridoid glycoside catalpol, extracted from the herb, has been shown to protect neurons by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress. Catalpol enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and activates the PI3K/Akt pathway, which is crucial for neuronal survival and function (Huang et al., 2022). Additionally, catalpol has been reported to improve cognitive function and memory, suggesting its potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s (Bhattamisra et al., 2019). 4.5 Other pharmacological benefits Beyond its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective effects, Rehmannia glutinosa offers additional health benefits. The herb has been found to ameliorate hyperglycemia and hyperlipemia, reduce vascular inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic models (Zhou et al., 2015). Moreover, its polysaccharides have shown potential as mucosal adjuvants, enhancing immune responses in the lungs and providing protective effects against respiratory infections and tumors (Kwak et al., 2018). Rehmannia glutinosa demonstrates a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties that make it a valuable component in both traditional and modern medical treatments. Its integration into contemporary therapeutic practices could lead to more effective and comprehensive health management strategies. 5 Integration with Contemporary Medicine 5.1 Synergistic effects with modern pharmaceuticals Rehmannia glutinosa has demonstrated significant potential in enhancing the efficacy of modern pharmaceuticals. Studies show that its extracts can synergize with conventional drugs to improve therapeutic outcomes. For instance, the polysaccharide fraction of R. glutinosa has been shown to potentiate the effects of antidiabetic drugs by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing blood glucose levels (Zhou et al., 2015). Additionally, its combination with chemotherapeutic agents has demonstrated reduced side effects and enhanced anticancer efficacy through mechanisms such as the inhibition of lipid peroxidation and scavenging of free radicals (Yu et al., 2006). 5.2 Clinical trials and evidence-based studies Several clinical trials and evidence-based studies have evaluated the efficacy of R. glutinosa in treating various conditions. One significant study found that R. glutinosa extracts significantly reduced waist circumference in obese women, possibly through the modulation of gut microbiota (Han et al., 2015). Another study highlighted its neuroprotective effects in a rat model of cognitive impairment, where it was shown to improve memory and reduce inflammation (Lee et al., 2011). 5.3 Application in treating modern diseases R. glutinosa has been extensively studied for its hypoglycemic effects. It has been shown to improve blood glucose levels, enhance insulin secretion, and reduce oxidative stress in diabetic models (Zhou et al., 2015). Its polysaccharides are particularly effective in ameliorating hyperglycemia and related complications.
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