Thailand Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and antioxidant properties of Chinese herbal extracts: Huangqin and Haunglian

Watcharin Rangsipanuratn — 2026-06-30

Many types of Chinese herbs contain active compounds that exhibit antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a major nosocomial problem. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the Chinese herb extracts; Huangqin (黄芩) and Huang Lian (黄连), against methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) using microbiological method, their antioxidant activity using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, as well as total phenolic compounds using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The colorimetric broth microdilution method indicated that Huangqin (黄芩) had minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of 1.56 mg/mL and 1.56-12.50 mg/mL for MSSA, respectively and 1.56 mg/mL and 1.56-6.25 mg/mL, respectively for MRSA. Huanglian (黄连) showed stronger antibacterial activity with MIC and MBC values of 0.39 mg/mL and 0.78-1.56 mg/mL for MSSA, respectively, and 0.39-0.78 mg/mL and 0.78-6.25 mg/mL for MRSA, respectively. The IC₅₀ values for antioxidant activity of Huangqin (黄芩) and Huanglian (黄连) were 0.067±0.017 mg/mL and 0.196±0.018 mg/mL, respectively. Total phenolic compounds was higher in Huangqin (黄芩) (44.8 mg GAE/g) compared to Huanglian (黄连) (36.11 mg GAE/g). In conclusion, each herb demonstrated antibacterial effects against MRSA and MSSA with no statistically significant difference. Huanglian (黄连) was more effective than Huangqin (黄芩), while Huangqin (黄芩) exhibited stronger antioxidant properties, suggesting both herbs could be developed as alternative treatments for S. aureus infections or for antioxidant activity.

Prioritization of service quality in traditional Chinese medicine using the SERVQUAL dimensions combined with a modified analytic hierarchy process

Naymirach Pahamark — 2026-06-30

This study aimed to investigate the prioritization of service quality in traditional Chinese medicine and to examine the influence of average monthly income on such prioritization by applying service quality dimensions based on the SERVQUAL theory together with the modified analytic hierarchy process. This study employed a quantitative research design. Data were collected using pairwise comparison questionnaires from a sample of 414 service users who had received services within the past year. Convenience sampling was used, and the data were analyzed using the modified AHP to calculate priority weights and to examine the consistency ratio. The results showed that service users placed the highest importance on empathy, followed by assurance, responsiveness, reliability, and tangibles, respectively. The important sub-factors included physicians’ competence, the provision of clear and timely information, and attentiveness to patients’ problems. In addition, the results accepted the hypothesis that income level influences the prioritization of service quality. The entry-level and upper-middle-income groups placed the highest importance on empathy, whereas the high-income group placed the highest importance on assurance, focusing on professional expertise. This study provides benefits for the development of the public health service system and can be used as a guideline for improving the quality of traditional Chinese medicine services to better align with the needs of service users.

Mechanistic study of Banxia Xiexin Tang in the treatment of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal adverse signs based on network pharmacology

Tonsakul Sungthong — 2026-06-30

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of Banxia Xiexin Tang (半夏泻心汤) in the treatment of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal adverse signs (AAGS) using a network pharmacology approach combined with molecular docking. Active compounds were screened from the TCMSP database based on the criteria of oral bioavailability (OB) ≥30% and drug-likeness (DL) ≥0.18. Disease-related targets were retrieved from the GeneCards database. Subsequently, intersection targets were identified, followed by the construction of a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and GO/KEGG enrichment analyses, as well as molecular docking. The results identified 115 active compounds and 61 shared target genes. The PPI network analysis revealed that PTGS2, TNF, IL6, IL1B, and AKT1 were key targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the mechanisms were mainly associated with inflammation, immune response, and apoptosis. Molecular docking results demonstrated that quercetin and cavidine exhibited strong binding affinities with key targets. In conclusion, Banxia Xiexin Tang may exert therapeutic effects through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms, which is consistent with the theoretical principles of traditional Chinese medicine and provides a basis for further experimental studies.

Effectiveness of acupuncture combined with naproxen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a controlled experimental study

Porwarut Srihara — 2026-06-30

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture combined with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), naproxen, on pain, knee function, quality of life, and medication consumption among patients with knee osteoarthritis. A controlled experimental study design was employed. A total of 100 participants were divided into two groups: a control group of 50 patients who received naproxen 250 mg, and an experimental group of 50 patients who received acupuncture in combination with naproxen. Acupuncture was administered twice weekly for four consecutive weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and a medication-use record from week 0 to week 5. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, Chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. The results showed that baseline characteristics between the two groups were mostly not significantly different, except for age, with the experimental group being significantly older than the control group (p<0.05). After treatment, the experimental group demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in total WOMAC scores than the control group from week 1 to week 4. At week 4, the mean WOMAC score was 33.8±29.9 in the experimental group compared with 57.3±32.4 in the control group (p<0.05). In addition, KOOS scores for pain, activities of daily living, and sports and recreation function were significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group at several time points, particularly at week 4 (p<0.05). Furthermore, the experimental group used significantly fewer naproxen tablets than the control group every week (p<0.05). At week 5, the median medication use was 1 tablet (IQR 0.0-0.4) in the experimental group compared with 6 tablets (IQR 2.0-8.0) in the control group. In conclusion, acupuncture combined with naproxen tended to be more effective than naproxen alone in reducing pain and disease severity, improving knee function, and decreasing NSAID consumption among patients with knee osteoarthritis. However, further randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are recommended to confirm the effectiveness and durability of the treatment outcomes.

From 5,000 years of wisdom to integrative medicine

Uthai Sotanaphun — 2026-06-30

Intradermal acupuncture needles: a promising alternative therapy for patients and practitioners

Yaneeporn Suttipintu — 2026-06-30

Qigong for holistic health: an approach in the context of Thai society

Pharavee Quankaew — 2026-06-30

This article aims to present the practical guidelines for Qigong training, together with an explanation of its benefits and underlying mechanisms in both static practice (five elements standing meditation) and dynamic practice (lung-nourishing Qigong). It also analyzes the congruence between the meditative aspects of Qigong and traditional Thai Buddhist mindfulness practices. The data collection employed a qualitative approach, combining in-depth interviews with experts in traditional Chinese medicine and Qigong instructors; together with a review of academic literature, to synthesize both theoretical perspectives and practical experiences, highlighting the potential of Qigong as a holistic health modality that integrates physical and mental well-being. The article proposes approaches or application of Qigong in the context of contemporary Thai culture, particularly among the elderly and working-age populations, to support disease prevention, restoration of life balance, and sustainable self-care.

Research progress on acupuncture treatment for dysmenorrhea

Orapa Sinlamuth — 2026-06-30

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynecological symptoms, characterized by lower abdominal pain occurring before, during, or shortly after menstruation. The pain is typically described as a dull ache or tension, often accompanied by lower back pain, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bloating, and cold extremities. Dysmenorrhea is classified into two types: primary and secondary. Various factors contribute to this condition, including lifestyle, work-related stress, internal organ abnormalities, and shifting socioeconomic environments. While Western medicine primarily utilizes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treatment to relieve pain, acupuncture has gained popularity in traditional Chinese medicine due to its high efficacy in pain reduction and minimal side effects. This study compiled data from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database regarding the use of acupuncture alone and in combination with other therapies to treat dysmenorrhea, aiming to provide a beneficial framework for clinical treatment planning and future research.

A study on the development and practice of traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture culture study courses in primary and secondary education

Jiang Yang — 2026-06-30

Traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine theory and embodies both distinctive therapeutic value and profound cultural connotations. In the context of the coordinated advancement of the Healthy China strategy and quality education, integrating study-based learning on traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture culture into primary and secondary school campuses not only helps enhance adolescents’ health literacy and cultural identity, but also promotes the integrated development of dialectical thinking and scientific inquiry abilities. Focusing on acupuncture culture study tours, this paper analyzes their current promotion status and typical cases, systematically examines the main challenges in theoretical adaptation, resource integration, and implementation. Furthermore, it proposes strategic recommendations for facilitating effective dissemination and practice within the primary and secondary education system, covering aspects such as curriculum design, platform establishment, and ecological collaboration.

Research progress on traditional Chinese medicine regulating ferroptosis in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy

Hu Zhihan — 2026-06-30

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, and current therapeutic approaches remain limited in delaying its progression. Ferroptosis, a form of cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, is closely associated with DKD. Its underlying mechanisms involve iron metabolism dysregulation, antioxidant system dysfunction, and lipid peroxide accumulation. Hyperglycemic conditions exacerbate renal oxidative damage, leading to aberrant expression of ferroptosis-related proteins such as downregulation of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), thereby promoting deterioration of renal function. Traditional Chinese medicine, with its multi-component and multi-target advantages, can modulate ferroptosis through pathways including iron ion chelation, enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activity, and inhibition of lipid peroxidation, thereby attenuating renal injury. Future research should integrate multi-omics technologies to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, and validate therapeutic efficacy through clinical trials, with the aim of exploring novel strategies for integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment.

Liuwei Dihuang pill and Jiaotai pill treatment elderly insomnia

Wirairat Anantaklin — 2026-06-30

Thailand is currently a complete aged society, with approximately 14 million people aged 60 and above. One in three elderly people experience insomnia. Insomnia increases the risk of serious illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, heart attack, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and depression. In traditional Chinese medicine, the cause of insomnia is attributed to an imbalance of yang and yin at night. The foundation of Yin and Yang in the body resides in the kidneys, which house water and fire. Therefore, the kidneys are crucial for maintaining Yin-Yang balance. In older adults, the function of internal organs declines, leading to kidney qi deficiency, and an imbalance of qi, blood, Yin, and Yang. Insomnia in the elderly is primarily a deficiency. When kidney yin is deficient, kidney fluid does not adequately nourish the heart, leading to excess heart yang. This heat affects the heart causing insomnia. This is considered heart-kidney non-interaction syndrome. Treatment therefore focuses on nourishing yin, reducing heat, and reconnecting the heart and kidneys. The herbal formulas used are Liuwei Dihuang pill and Jiaotai pill. This review article is studying the treatment of insomnia in the elderly using the herbal formulas Liuwei Dihuang pill and Jiaotai pill from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database of the People's Republic of China from 2011 to 2026. The author hopes that this article will be useful to those who wish to study clinical methods for treating insomnia in the elderly, and to provide guidance for further developing research on treating insomnia in the elderly using traditional Chinese medicine.

Treatment of insomnia of liver depression transforming into fire type with acupuncture at "Paired Shenmen acupoints" combined with modified Danzhi Xiaoyao San: a case report and mechanism discussion

Zhu Jiaying — 2026-06-30

With the increasingly fierce social competition and long-term mental stress, insomnia of liver stagnation transforming into fire type has become more and more common. This syndrome is mainly characterized by persistent failure to obtain normal sleep, accompanied by symptoms such as irritability, dry mouth and bitter taste. It is mostly caused by emotional disorder, and its pathogenesis is liver failing to disperse and dredge, Qi stagnation transforming into fire, and fire disturbing the heart spirit, which is generally attributed to Yang hyperactivity and Yin decline as well as disharmony between Yin and Yang. Promoting the liver and regulating the spirit is often adopted as the clinical therapeutic principle for this type of insomnia. As a key acupoint for tranquilizing the mind, hand Shenmen (HT7) and auricular acupoint Shenmen (TF4) plays an important role in the treatment. This article presents clinical experience in treating insomnia with the combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in a patient, which has demonstrated favorable therapeutic outcomes.

Fundus hemorrhage caused by acupuncture at Jingming (BL 1): a case report

Thanyanan Sawangkamonphan — 2026-06-30

Jingming (睛明, BL1) is a commonly used acupuncture point for the treatment of ocular disorders; however, due to its proximity to intraorbital structures, acupuncture at this point carries a risk of bleeding-related complications. Fundus hemorrhage induced by acupuncture is rare. This report describes a patient with a history of high myopia and prior laser-assisted ocular surgery who underwent acupuncture at Jingming (睛明, BL1) for eye-related symptoms. Localized fundus hemorrhage was identified in one eye following treatment. The patient was managed conservatively with cessation of acupuncture and close follow-up. The hemorrhagic lesion gradually resolved, and no significant visual impairment was observed. This case underscores the importance of careful evaluation of ocular history and strict control of needle depth and direction when performing acupuncture at peri-orbital points to minimize rare but serious complications.