Kampo medicine in the management of menopausal symptoms: A narrative review of therapeutic potential

抄録

Menopausal symptoms primarily result from ovarian dysfunction and declining estrogen levels, leading to multisystem disorders. Although hormone therapy remains the most effective treatment, its long-term use is associated with significant risks, prompting interest in alternative options. Kampo medicine, a traditional Japanese system derived from Chinese herbal medicine, has gained renewed attention as a complementary and personalized therapeutic approach to menopausal health. This review aims to systematically summarize the current application and clinical evidence of Kampo medicine in the management of menopausal symptoms across multiple domains, including vasomotor, neuropsychiatric, musculoskeletal, skeletal, and genitourinary systems. Furthermore, the review seeks to further validate its efficacy through the mechanistic actions of its key ingredients. While the therapeutic effects of Kampo medicine on hot flashes have been inconsistent, it has demonstrated significant efficacy in improving emotional disturbances, sleep disorders, and somatic symptoms, particularly among individuals whose conditions are not driven solely by hormonal imbalances. In the management of osteoporosis, the integration of Kampo medicine with conventional Western treatments not only enhances overall therapeutic outcomes but also contributes to the reduction of adverse effects. One limitation of current research is the lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of Kampo medicine in managing Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), highlighting the need for further investigation in this area. The integration of Kampo medicine into menopausal symptom management may contribute to a more holistic, patient-centered approach that offers both traditional and Western medical options. This integrative model has the potential to support shared decision-making and improve personalized care for menopausal women.