Herba Epimedii water extract elevates estrogen level and improves lipid metabolism in postmenopausal women

作者：Fangfang Yan, Yan Liu, Yunfang Liu, Yuxia Zhao · 发表于：Phytotherapy Research · 年份：2008 · DOI：10.1002/ptr.2451 · 被引用次数：33 · 研究领域：Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research、Natural product bioactivities and synthesis、Estrogen and related hormone effects

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can ameliorate lipid metabolism after menopause, but it is not suitable for long-term use because of serious side effects. Herba Epimedii is a widely used herbal medicine in many Asian countries, it potentially treats menopausal syndrome and its complications with few side effects and good curative effects. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Herba Epimedii water extract on blood lipid and sex hormone levels. Ninety subjects were randomly divided into two groups: a trial group which received Herba Epimedii water extract and a control group which was administered an equal amount of water placebo. At the baseline and after 6 months of medication, serum estradiol (E(2)), progesterone (P), testosterone (T), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations were measured. The results indicated that Herba Epimedii water extract decreased the TC and TG levels (p < 0.01). Furthermore, Herba Epimedii water extract significantly increased the serum level of E(2) (p < 0.01) compared with the pre-treatment level. In conclusion, Herba Epimedii water extract produces its beneficial actions in postmenopausal women.