Kangen-karyu raises surface body temperature through oxidative stress modification

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Traditional Medicine
• Oxidative Stress Biology

Background:

• Kangen-karyu, a six-herb prescription, demonstrates pharmacological effects via oxidative stress pathways in animal models.
• Understanding its human physiological effects, particularly thermoregulation, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the link between Kangen-karyu's antioxidant properties and its body temperature-elevating effects in humans.
• To elucidate the specific mechanisms involving nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Main Methods:

• A study involving healthy human volunteers (age 35 ± 15).
• Measurements included surface body temperature, serum nitrite, ROS scavenging activity, and inflammatory cytokines before and after Kangen-karyu intake.
• Analysis of correlations between serum markers and temperature changes.

Main Results:

• Kangen-karyu significantly increased overall body surface temperature, notably in the upper body, for over 120 minutes.
• Serum nitrite levels and ROS scavenging activity against singlet oxygen increased post-administration.
• A positive correlation was observed between serum nitrite and superoxide scavenging, indicating an effect on the O2(•−)-NO balance.
• No significant changes in IL-6, TNF-α, or adiponectin levels were detected.

Conclusions:

• Kangen-karyu's therapeutic effect in humans is mediated by nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) dependent mechanisms.
• The mechanism involves interactions between ROS, and between ROS and NO, not solely ROS production.
• This study provides insight into the pharmacological basis of Kangen-karyu's traditional uses.