Premium
Emodin: A Review of its Pharmacology, Toxicity and Pharmacokinetics
Author(s) -
Dong Xiaoxv,
Fu Jing,
Yin Xingbin,
Cao Sali,
Li Xuechun,
Lin Longfei,
Ni Jian
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
phytotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.019
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1573
pISSN - 0951-418X
DOI - 10.1002/ptr.5631
Subject(s) - emodin , pharmacology , pharmacokinetics , polygonum , traditional medicine , toxicity , bioavailability , aloe emodin , medicine , chemistry , biochemistry
Emodin is a natural anthraquinone derivative that occurs in many widely used Chinese medicinal herbs, such as Rheum palmatum , Polygonum cuspidatum and Polygonum multiflorum . Emodin has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years and is still present in various herbal preparations. Emerging evidence indicates that emodin possesses a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, including anticancer, hepatoprotective, antiinflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. However, emodin could also lead to hepatotoxicity, kidney toxicity and reproductive toxicity, particularly in high doses and with long‐term use. Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated that emodin has poor oral bioavailability in rats because of its extensive glucuronidation. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the pharmacology, toxicity and pharmacokinetics of emodin reported to date with an emphasis on its biological properties and mechanisms of action. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.