[Kampo medicine for the treatment of adverse effects caused by anticancer drugs].

In contrast to conventional single-target drugs, multicomponent Kampo medicines are designed to achieve therapeutic effects through multiple drug targets. This article discusses recent advances in mechanistic studies and the clinical effects of eight representative Kampo formulations (Rikkunshito, Hangeshashinto, Daikenchuto, Goshajinkigan, Yokukansan, and the tonics Hochuekkito, Juzentaihoto, and Ninjinyoeito) for the treatment of adverse effects caused by anticancer drugs such as anorexia, oral mucositis, diarrhea, neurotoxicity, abnormal behavior, malaise, weakness, and thrombocytopenia, which Western pharmaceuticals fail to address adequately.