Kidney function improver

Abstract

To provide novel herbal medicines that can improve kidney function.SOLUTION: The amount of creatinine can be reduced by a kidney function improving agent containing Seishinrenshiin extract.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an agent for improving renal function. [Background technology]

[0002] The kidneys have not only the excretory function of producing urine, but also various other functions such as maintaining the balance of the internal environment, regulating blood pressure, helping to produce red blood cells, and activating vitamin D. It is known that kidney function declines with age, and the proportion of elderly people with chronic kidney disease is high. Since decline in kidney function not only declines excretory function but also worsens metabolic abnormalities such as renal anemia and vitamin D activation, it is extremely important to maintain or improve kidney function (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0003] In recent years, interest in self-medication, or self-treatment of poor health, has been growing, and opportunities to use herbal medicines as a means of self-medication are increasing. In herbal medicine, a state in which the kidneys are in a weakened state is called "kidney deficiency" (Non-Patent Document 2), and several herbal medicines for kidney deficiency are known. In recent years, there has also been active research into the mechanism of action of herbal medicines from the perspective of Western medicine.

[0004] Specifically, examples of herbal medicines for kidney deficiency include Hachimijiogan (Non-Patent Document 3), which improves microcirculation, lowers blood sugar for diabetes, has preventive effects against kidney deficiency, and improves symptoms associated with aging by reducing radicals, etc.; Shichimotsukakoto, which is used in combination with therapeutic drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system to treat chronic kidney disease; Saireito (Non-Patent Document 4), which is effective against nephrotic syndrome thought to be caused by allergies and against pediatric IgA nephropathy; and Unpito (Non-Patent Document 5), which is effective against the progression of chronic renal failure.

[0005] On the other hand, Seishinrenshi-in is known as a Chinese herbal medicine for frequent urination. Frequent urination refers to a symptom in which the number of times is abnormal, even though the amount of urine is not abnormal (less than 3 liters per day), and is a state in which the smooth muscle of the bladder is excessively contracted (Non-Patent Document 7). In addition, the bladder depends on complex nerve control to store urine and contract when the amount of urine becomes appropriate, and at the same time, the urethral sphincter relaxes, so frequent urination is often accompanied by such a nerve disorder (bladder neurosis) (Non-Patent Document 6).

[0006] Regarding the mechanism of action of Seishinrenshiin, it has been confirmed that it improves frequent urination by suppressing the contraction of urethral smooth muscle (Non-Patent Document 7), and that an extremely high degree of improvement of bladder neurosis of 100% was observed (Non-Patent Document 8). [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0007] [Non-Patent Document 1] Journal of the Japanese Geriatrics Society 51:385-400, 2014 [Non-Patent Document 2] Japanese Journal of Oriental Medicine 47:532-538, 1997 [Non-Patent Document 3] The potential of Kampo treatment for frailty as seen from its pharmacological action Phi Kampo No. 63 [Non-Patent Document 4] Japanese Journal of Oriental Medicine 64(1), 10-15, 2013 [Non-Patent Document 5] Journal of the Japanese Society of Nephrology 41(8): 769-777, 1999 [Non-Patent Document 6] "Guidelines for Clinical Laboratory Tests 2005 / 2006", Japan Society of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Chapter 1: Symptoms, Kidneys, 13. Polyuria and Frequent Urinary Examinations [Non-Patent Document 7] Agribio, 48(48) vol.2(1), 2018 [Non-Patent Document 8] Urological Surgery 1998 11(10), 1307-1311 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] There are several herbal medicines that have been shown to improve kidney function, but considering the side effects each medicine has and the fact that they are prescribed according to the patient's constitution, it is desirable to have more options. As for Seishinrenshi-in, it improves frequent urination by utilizing the mechanism of action that inhibits the contraction of urethral smooth muscle and approaches bladder neurosis, so it has essentially been used for symptoms that are not related to decreased kidney function. Therefore, it was not expected that Seishinrenshi-in would have the effect of improving kidney function.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a new herbal medicine that can improve kidney function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] As a result of extensive research, the present inventors unexpectedly discovered that Seishinrenshiin has the effect of improving kidney function. Based on this discovery, the present invention was completed through further research.

[0011] That is, the present invention provides the following aspects. Item 1. A kidney function improver that contains Seishinrenshi-in extract. Item 2. The renal function improving agent according to Item 1, which is used for reducing creatinine. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, a herbal medicine capable of improving kidney function is provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The renal function improving agent of the present invention is characterized by containing Seishinrenshiin extract. The renal function improving agent of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0014] Active ingredients The kidney function improving agent of the present invention contains Seishinrenshiin extract. Seishinrenshiin is described in the Chinese Ming Dynasty medical book "Banbyo Kaishun" and is a mixed herbal medicine containing Lotus Root, Bakumondo Root, Poria Cocos, Ginseng, Shazenshi, Scutellaria Root, Astragalus Root, Zikkoppi, and Licorice.

[0015] In the present invention, there are no particular limitations on the mixing ratio of the herbs that make up Seishinrenshiin, but typically include 2 to 5 parts by weight of Lotus Niku, preferably 3 to 4 parts by weight; 1.5 to 4 parts by weight of Bakumondou, preferably 2 to 3 parts by weight; 2 to 4 parts by weight of Poria Coccinea, preferably 2.5 to 3.5 parts by weight; 1.5 to 5 parts by weight of Ginseng, preferably 2 to 4 parts by weight; 1.5 to 3 parts by weight of Shazenshi, preferably 2 to 2.5 parts by weight; 1.5 to 3 parts by weight of Scutellaria Root, preferably 2 to 2.5 parts by weight; Astragalus Root, 1 to 4 parts by weight, preferably 2 to 2.5 parts by weight; Jikoppi, 1 to 3 parts by weight, preferably 2 to 2.5 parts by weight; and 0.7 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.7 to 1 part by weight of Licorice.

[0016] Suitable examples of herbal medicine preparations used in the production of the Seishinrenshiin extract used in the present invention include 3.5 parts by weight of Lotus Saxifraga, 2.1 parts by weight of Bakumondou, 2.8 parts by weight of Poria Coccinea, 3.5 parts by weight of Ginseng, 2.1 parts by weight of Shazenshi, 2.1 parts by weight of Scutellaria Baicalensis, 2.8 parts by weight of Astragalus Root, 2.1 parts by weight of Jikoppi, and 0.7 parts by weight of Licorice.

[0017] The extract form of Seishinrenshiin may be either a liquid extract such as a liquid extract or a soft extract, or a solid dry extract powder.

[0018] The liquid extract of Seishinrenshiin can be obtained by subjecting a mixture of herbs according to Seishinrenshiin to an extraction process, and concentrating the resulting extract as necessary. The extraction solvent used in the extraction process is not particularly limited, and may be water or aqueous ethanol, preferably water. The dried extract powder of Seishinrenshiin can be obtained by drying the liquid extract. The drying method is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a spray drying method or a method in which a suitable adsorbent (e.g., silicic anhydride, starch, etc.) is added to a soft extract with a high extract concentration to obtain an adsorbed powder.

[0019] In the present invention, the Seishinrenshi-in extract may be an extract prepared by the above-mentioned method, or may be a commercially available product. For example, Seishinrenshi-in dried extract powder is known as Seishinrenshi-in Dried Extract-Q (manufactured by Nippon Funa Yakuhin Co., Ltd.) and Seishinrenshi-in Dried Extract-F (manufactured by Alps Yakuhin Co., Ltd.), and is commercially available.

[0020] In the kidney function improving agent of the present invention, the content of Seishinrenshiin extract is not particularly limited as long as the effect of the present invention is exhibited, but is usually 10 to 100% by weight, preferably 20 to 90% by weight, more preferably 40 to 80% by weight, and even more preferably 60 to 70% by weight, calculated as the amount of dried extract powder of Seishinrenshiin extract. In the present invention, the amount of dried extract powder of Seishinrenshiin refers to the amount of the dried extract powder itself when a dried extract powder of Seishinrenshiin is used, and refers to the amount converted to the amount remaining after removing the solvent when a liquid extract of Seishinrenshiin is used. In addition, when the dried extract powder of Seishinrenshiin contains additives such as adsorbents added during production, the amount refers to the amount excluding the additives.

[0021] Other Ingredients The renal function improving agent of the present invention may be composed of the Seishinrenshiin extract alone, or may contain additives and bases according to the formulation. Such additives and bases are not particularly limited as long as they are pharmacologic acceptable, and examples thereof include excipients, binders, disintegrants, lubricants, isotonicity agents, plasticizers, dispersants, emulsifiers, solubilizers, wetting agents, stabilizers, suspending agents, adhesives, coating agents, glossing agents, water, oils and fats, waxes, hydrocarbons, fatty acids, higher alcohols, esters, water-soluble polymers, surfactants, metal soaps, lower alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, pH adjusters, buffers, antioxidants, UV inhibitors, preservatives, flavorings, fragrances, powders, thickeners, dyes, and chelating agents. These additives may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The content of these additives and bases is appropriately set according to the types of additives and bases used, the formulation form of the renal function improving agent, and the like.

[0022] In addition, the renal function improving agent of the present invention may contain other nutritional components or pharmacological components as necessary in addition to the Seishinrenshiin extract. Such nutritional components and pharmacological components are not particularly limited as long as they are pharmacologic acceptable, and examples thereof include antacids, stomachic agents, digestive agents, intestinal regulators, antispasmodics, mucosal repair agents, anti-inflammatory agents, astringents, antiemetics, antitussives, expectorants, anti-inflammatory enzymes, sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines, caffeine, cardiac diuretics, antibacterial agents, vasoconstrictors, vasodilators, local anesthetics, herbal extracts, vitamins, and menthols. These nutritional components and pharmacological components may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The content of these components is appropriately set according to the type of components used.

[0023] Formulation The formulation form of the renal function improving agent of the present invention is not particularly limited, as long as it can be administered orally, and examples thereof include solid preparations such as powders, fine granules, granules, tablets, troches, chewable tablets, capsules (soft capsules, hard capsules), and pills; semi-solid preparations such as jellies; and liquid preparations such as solutions, suspensions, and syrups, and preferably includes granules or tablets.

[0024] Manufacturing method The method for producing the renal function improving agent of the present invention may be carried out by formulating the above-mentioned herbal ingredients in accordance with a conventional formulation method employed in the medical field.

[0025] Purpose The renal function improving agent of the present invention is used for the purpose of improving renal function. That is, the renal function improvement promoter of the present invention can be used for the symptoms of so-called kidney deficiency without any particular limitation.

[0026] Creatinine is a waste product produced by the metabolism of creatine phosphate, which is the energy source for muscle movement, and is filtered by the kidney and excreted as urine, so an increase in the concentration of creatinine in blood indicates a decrease in renal function.The renal function improving agent of the present invention can improve renal function and reduce the concentration of creatinine in blood.Therefore, as a preferred example of the renal function improving agent of the present invention, it can be used for the purpose of reducing blood creatinine.

[0027] Dosage / Usage The renal function improving agent of the present invention is used by oral administration. The dose of the renal function improving agent of the present invention is appropriately set according to the age, constitution, severity of symptoms, etc. of the person to be administered, but for example, the amount of about 1500 to 5000 mg, preferably about 2000 to 3000 mg, more preferably about 2200 to 2500 mg of the dried extract powder of Seishinrenshi-in extract per day for humans may be taken 1 to 3 times a day, preferably twice a day. The timing of taking the agent is not particularly limited, and may be before, after, or between meals, but is preferably before (30 minutes before a meal) or between meals (2 hours after a meal).

[0028] Furthermore, since the effect of improving renal function by the renal function improving agent of the present invention is achieved by continuous administration, it is preferable to take the renal function improving agent of the present invention continuously (specifically, for one week or more, preferably for two weeks or more). EXAMPLES

[0029] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0030] (1) Preparation of renal function improving agent As raw herbal medicines, 3.5 parts by weight of Lotus Root, 2.1 parts by weight of Bakumondou, 2.8 parts by weight of Poria Root, 3.5 parts by weight of Ginseng, 2.1 parts by weight of Shazenshi, 2.1 parts by weight of Scutellaria Root, 2.8 parts by weight of Astragalus Root, 2.1 parts by weight of Jikoppi, and 0.7 parts by weight of Licorice were used, which were chopped and then extracted with 10 times the weight of water at about 100°C for 1 hour and centrifuged to obtain an extract. The extract was concentrated under reduced pressure and dried using a spray dryer to obtain Seishinrenshi-in extract powder. The obtained Seishinrenshi-in extract powder was 2238 mg per 21.7 g of raw herbal medicine mixture. The drying using the spray dryer was performed by dropping the extract into an atomizer rotating at 10,000 rpm and supplying hot air at 150°C.

[0031] (2) Experimental method Aged mice (C57BL / 6J mice, 80 weeks old, male) were used as experimental animals. These aged mice were divided into a control group and a group administered Seishinrenshi extract (N=10 for each). The control group was fed a normal diet (CE-2 diet) ad libitum for three weeks, while the Seishinrenshi extract group was fed a normal diet mixed with 4% by weight of Seishinrenshi extract ad libitum for three weeks. After the test, blood was collected from each group and the amount of creatinine in the blood was measured. The relative amount (%) of blood creatinine in the Seishinrenshi extract group was calculated when the blood creatinine in the control group was set at 100%. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0032] [Table 1]

[0033] As shown in Table 1, administration of Seishinrenshiin extract reduced blood creatinine levels, thereby improving renal function.

Claims

1. A kidney function improver that contains Seishinrenshi-in extract (excluding those that contain Rokumi-gan).

2. The renal function improving agent according to claim 1, which is used for reducing creatinine.

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