Modified Zexie decoction improves phlegm-dampness type stage I hypertension by regulating the gut-immune-kidney axis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Indroduction: Hypertension pathogenesis increasingly implicates gut microbiota-host crosstalk, where immune regulation bridges gut dysbiosis and renal dysfunction. Phlegm-dampness hypertension-a prevalent Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome typified by metabolic, immune, and renal anomalies-demands novel interventions. Modified Zexie Decoction (MZXD), a TCM formula with documented antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory properties, may target the gut-immune-kidney axis. This study investigated MZXD's efficacy in Stage I phlegm-dampness hypertension via this axis. Methods: Thirty Stage I phlegm-dampness hypertension patients received MZXD for 42 days. Pre- and post-treatment measurements included blood pressure, serum immune markers, renal function parameters, gut microbiota, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Results: MZXD significantly reduced systolic/diastolic blood pressure (P < 0.05). Gut microbiota diversity increased, shifting toward healthy profiles. SCFA levels rose markedly (P < 0.01). Immune markers (P < 0.05) and renal function improved (P < 0.05). Discussion: MZXD alleviates phlegm-dampness hypertension by modulating the gut-immune-kidney axis: enhancing microbial diversity, boosting SCFAs, attenuating inflammation, and improving renal function. This first systematic validation positions MZXD as a promising multi-target therapy. Future studies should explore clinical scalability and mechanistic depth.
Source: Frontiers in Pharmacology
Authors: Zeqi Hu, Jiujie Jia, Yiyan Su, Yihao Gu, Bingbing Cheng, Ninghua Jiang
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4411422798