Yangkyuk-Sanhwa-Tang induces changes in serum cytokines and improves outcome in focal stroke patients.

Yangkyuk-Sanhwa-Tang (YS-Tang), a specific prescription composed of nine herbal mixtures, has been developed as a formula for the Soyangin cerebral infarction (CI) patients according to Sasang constitutional philosophy. However, the mechanisms by which this formula affects CI remain unknown. This study revealed changes in cytokine production in the acute stage of Soyangin constitution CI patients after YS-Tang administration. Clinical signs (vertigo, headache and slurred speech) of CI disappeared significantly in about 2 weeks after oral administration of YS-Tang (P < .05). The mean interleukin (IL)-2 plasma levels were lower by 15% in the patients with CI than in the normal groups, whereas the mean TNF-alpha, IL-4, IL-6 and IgE levels were significantly higher in the patients (P < .01). There were no significant differences in interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) levels between the groups. Serum IFN-gamma and IL-2 levels were elevated significantly (P < .01) in the patients with CI by YS-Tang administration. Significant reduced plasma levels (P < .01) of TNF-alpha, IL-4, IL-6 and IgE were observed in the patients treated with YS-Tang. During the period of YS-Tang administration, there were no other adverse effects. The data indicate that YS-Tang has an enhancing effect on antiinflammatory cytokines and an inhibitory effect on inflammatory cytokines. These results may implicate a good CI treatment effect of YS-tang and that its action may be due to regulation of cytokine production.