Research progress in pharmacological property of Aralia elata.

Abstract

The traditional Chinese medicine Aralia elata (Miq.) seem., also known as Aralia mandshurica, has the effect of "tonifying qi and calming the mind, strengthening the essence and tonifying the kidneys, and dispelling wind and invigorating blood circulation", and is used in the treatment of neurasthenia, yang deficiency and Qi deficiency, kidney Qi deficiency, spleen Yang deficiency, water-dampness stagnation, thirst, and bruises, etc. Aralia elata saponins are the main material basis for its pharmacological effects. From the perspective of modern pharmacological science Aralia elata has a wide range of effects, including anti-myocardial ischaemia and alleviation of secondary myocardium ischemic reperfusion injury by regulating ionic homeostasis, anti-tumor by inhibiting proliferation, promoting apoptosis and enhancing immunity, hypoglycaemia and lipid lowering by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, and hepato-protective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory/analgesic effects. The studies on pharmacological mechanism of Aralia elata will be conducive to its development and application in the future. This article reviews the research progress of Aralia elata domestically and internationally in the last two decades, and proposes new directions for its further pharmacological research.