Phellodendri Cortex: A Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Pharmacokinetic Review

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Phytochemistry
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Dermatology

Background:

• Phellodendri Cortex (PC), also known as Huang Bai, is derived from the dried bark of Phellodendron species, primarily Phellodendron amurense Rupr (PAR) and Phellodendron chinense Schneid (PCS).
• PC exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant effects.
• A comprehensive summary of PC's chemical constituents and their pharmacological actions is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate the pharmacological actions of compounds found in Phellodendri Cortex (PC) and its species.
• To explore the pharmacokinetic profiles of PC and its constituents.
• To identify specific compounds within PC with potential therapeutic efficacy for atopic dermatitis.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature search using keywords such as "Huang Bai" and botanical/pharmaceutical names across major scientific databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.).
• Inclusion criteria focused on studies detailing phytochemical, pharmacological, and pharmacokinetic aspects of PC and its active compounds.
• Voucher numbers were verified to ensure the authenticity of the Phellodendri Cortex used in the reviewed studies.

Main Results:

• A total of 140 compounds were identified from PC and its species, with significant numbers isolated from PAR (84) and PCS (44).
• Obacunone and obaculactone were highlighted as potential active compounds for managing atopic dermatitis.
• PC demonstrates broad pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, antigout, antiulcer, neuroprotective, and antiatopic dermatitis effects.

Conclusions:

• The crude bark of Phellodendri Cortex (PC) and its subspecies contain diverse compounds, including alkaloids, limonoids, and flavonoids, supporting its wide-ranging pharmacological effects.
• Obacunone and obaculactone are promising bioactive compounds for atopic dermatitis treatment.
• While PC is generally safe, caution is advised for specific populations due to potential berberine-induced toxicity.