Abstract
An increasing number of reports have recently been published regarding the use of Kampo medicine for treating rheumatic diseases. Corticosteroids are generally prescribed for rheumatic diseases, but in this paper the changes in the disease states after treatment with corticosteroids and Kampo medicines have been examined. As examples of the clinical usefulness of Kampo formulations, Bakumondoto, Jiinkokato, Rokumigan, Hachimijiogan and Unkeito have been reported to increase salivary secretion and improve the immunological disorders of patients with the dry eyes and mouth associated with Sjögren's syndrome. According to several case reports, remission of systemic lupus erythematodes (SLE) and other rheumatic diseases was achieved with Kampo formulations. There are also reports that Saireito shortened the active phase of SLE, reduced the consumption of steroids and lowered the incidence of adverse reactions including increased hepatic transaminases. Research findings suggested that Saireito had an effect on T-lymphocyte subpopulations, directing the clinical course toward a more healthy state, while Hochuekkito was active in producing lowered NK cell activity.
