Research

Statistical Study of the Herbal Treatment for Chronic Lung Diseases

In the summer of 2006, a statistical study was conducted by a Statistics graduate student from Stanford University to further understand the effectiveness of an herbal product in treating degenerative pulmonary diseases including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), and Sarcoidosis.

Scope of the study:  A total of 1,721 patients who used Wei Laboratories’ Soup A, a Chinese herbal formula, were studied for their responses to the treatment.  The patients were divided into 2 groups.

• Group I included 957 patients who used a 3-day treatment
• Group II included 764 patients who continued the treatment for over 2 weeks

All patients were contacted via telephone with 2 random phone calls. All patients not reached in 2 phone calls were excluded from data analysis.

All patients were surveyed for FEV 1/ FEV6 levels, peak flow, oxygen saturation, symptom improvement, oxygen volume (liter/min), and ease of breathing on a scale of 1 (very difficult) to 10 (easy).

Results:

Groups	Patients Questioned	Patients Improved	Percentage Improved
I (3-day Treatment)	163	55	33%
II (over 2-week treatment)	400	306	77%

Research Findings on Selected Herbs Employed for Chronic Lung Diseases

Ganoderma Lucidum (Lingzhi/Reishi Mushroom)

Ganoderma lucidum has shown potential in managing COPD symptoms due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies suggest it can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, which are key factors in COPD progression. (Reference)

Radix Ophiopogonis (Maidong/ Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber)

Radix Ophiopogonis has been shown to improve mucociliary clearance, which is the process of clearing mucus and debris from the airways. 

This is crucial for chronic lung disease patients, who often experience excessive mucus production and impaired clearance. (Reference)

Radix Codonopsis (Dangshen/Tangshen)

Radix Codonopsis is a traditional Chinese medicine that has shown potential in improving lung function and managing symptoms associated with pulmonary disease.  

Studies suggest that CR can inhibit inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in COPD. It is also used in the treatment of both stable COPD and acute exacerbations. (Reference)

Rhizoma Dioscoreae (Shanyao/Chinese Yam)

Rhizoma Dioscoreae has many benefits in managing chronic lung diseases. Studies show it reduces chronic airway inflammation, improves lung function as evidenced by better FEV1 and FVC, and improves quality of life in severe COPD patients. (Reference)

Bulbus Lilii (Baihe/Lily Bulb)

Traditionally used to support lung structure and promote fluid secretion in the lungs, Lilii has been shown to help moisten the lungs and alleviate respiratory discomfort.

Studies have shown that lily extract can reduce inflammatory cell infiltration and improve the function of cilia in the lungs, which may be beneficial in preventing and treating pneumonia. (Reference)

Thallus Laminaria (Kunbu/Kelp)

Research suggests that Laminaria may help reduce inflammation. Given that inflammation is a key factor in many lung conditions these properties are relevant for supporting lung health.

Laminaria contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are involved in the development and               progression of various lung diseases. (Reference)

American Ginseng

Ginseng has been shown to reduce the number of COPD exacerbations (periods of worsening symptoms) and improve lung function and respiratory endurance.

It also enhances the immune response and protects against respiratory infections. (Reference)

Note: Herbs are prepared in a special manner to maintain the nutrient content, and each herb has multiple medical attributes that are not included above but are factored into the treatment of chronic lung diseases.

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