The Chemical Ingredients and Medical Effects of Natural Drugs
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54097/m7166n87Keywords:
Flos sophorae; natural medicine; medical effect; rutin, quercetin; polysaccharide.Abstract
Natural medicines have long been used to treat diseases, and in-depth exploration of their components and efficacy is crucial for clinical application. This paper focuses on Sophora japonica (Chinese scholar tree), analyzing its key chemical components, molecular structures, medicinal effects, and current research challenges, while discussing the significance and future directions of natural drug research. It identifies three main components of Sophora japonica: rutin, quercetin, and polysaccharides. Rutin and quercetin, both flavonols with similar structures, differ in efficacy—rutin, with hydrophilic properties, can protect blood vessels and prevent thrombosis, while quercetin is applicable for cancer and tumor treatment; polysaccharides exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor abilities. The study notes challenges in natural drug research, such as quercetin’s low bioavailability, which can be addressed by microfluidic technology and antisolvent precipitation to improve solubility; it also emphasizes strict control of natural drug production steps to enhance quality. Additionally, it points out side effects of natural medicines due to current technical limitations, which reduce their usage rate. This paper deepens understanding of natural medicines and highlights the importance of developing innovative solutions to promote their future application.
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