A Scoping Review of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Hwangryunhaedok-tang: Mechanism-Based Biomarkers

Hwangryunhaedok-tang (HLHDT) is a traditional Korean and Chinese medicinal formula known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the breadth of HLHDT’s therapeutic potential by analyzing literature on its anti-inflammatory effects. A database search (PubMed and CNKI) retrieved 2,013 relevant articles, of which 48 papers were selected for systematic review. Clinical studies showed its effectiveness in treating various inflammatory conditions, including radiation dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, ulcerative colitis, diabetic foot infections, periodontitis, oral diseases, and acute viral myocarditis. The analysis revealed that HLHDT effectively modulated inflammation across models including suppression of inflammatory pathways in lipopolysaccharide-treated A549 cells, and showing autophagy-related effects in RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, research on conditions such as atopic dermatitis, atherosclerosis, and acute lung injury determined its efficacy in treating a range of inflammatory diseases. The capacity of HLHDT to significantly reduce many proinflammatory markers underscored its extensive anti-inflammatory effects, and highlighted its potential in addressing both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. However, the predominance of studies conducted in China and variability in methodological quality may limit the generalizability of the findings. Therefore, there is a need for further clinical research to validate the effects of HLHDT, and explore its underlying mechanisms of action. This study demonstrated the potential of HLHDT as a significant therapeutic agent in traditional Chinese medicine.