CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

* Vaginitis

* Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

* Urinary tract infections (UTI) in women and men

* Genital eczema and itching, soreness and pain in men or women

* Yellow or green vaginal discharge with offensive odor and cottage cheese consistency

* Orchitis, epididymitis, and infection and inflammation of the scrotum and male genital region

* Pyelonephritis or cystitis with dysuria, turbid, yellow urine

* Candida yeast infection

* Infertility due to inflammation and infection of the pelvis (ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes)

 

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Antibiotic effects to treat infection

* Anti-inflammatory effects to reduce inflammation and swelling

* Analgesic action to relieve pain

* Diuretic action to promote normal urination

 

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Clears damp-heat in the lower jiao

* Clears damp-heat in the Liver, Gallbladder, and Urinary Bladder channels

* Promotes diuresis

* Invigorates blood circulation in the lower jiao

 

DOSAGE

Take 3 to 4 capsules three times daily with warm water on an empty stomach. Dosage may be increased to 6 to 8 capsules three times daily, if necessary. This formula should be taken consistently for at least one to two weeks to ensure complete eradication of the pathogen(s) and to avoid stimulating possible bacterial and viral resistance. It is important to advise the patient not to discontinue the use of herbs prior to completion of the whole course of herbal treatment.

 

INGREDIENTS

Bian Xu (Herba Polygoni Avicularis)

Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri)

Che Qian Zi (Semen Plantaginis)

Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei)

Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis)

Deng Xin Cao (Medulla Junci)

Di Fu Zi (Fructus Kochiae)

Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae)

Feng Wei Cao (Herba Pteris)

Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae)

Hong Hua (Flos Carthami)

Hua Shi (Talcum)

Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae)

Long Dan (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae)

Niu Xi (Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae)

Pao Zai Cao (Herba Physalis Angulatae)

Qu Mai (Herba Dianthi)

Shui Ding Xiang (Herba Ludwigiae Prostratae)

Tao Ren (Semen Persicae)

Xian Feng Cao (Herba Bidentis)

Ya She Huang (Herba Lippiae)

Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis)

Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae)

 

BACKGROUND

V-Support is designed to treat infection and inflammation of the lower abdominal region, including conditions such as vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary tract infection, cystitis, dysuria and pyelonephritis. These disorders are characterized by the presence of infection and inflammation, and therefore, require the use of herbs with anti-infective and anti-inflammatory effects.

 

FORMULA EXPLANATION

V-Support treats damp-heat in the lower jiao manifesting in vaginitis, cystitis, urinary tract infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, vaginal discharge, genital itching, male genital infection, and pyelonephritis.

        Long Dan (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae) clears damp-heat from the Liver channel, which travels through the genital region. Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae), Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae) all clear damp-heat and treat infection. They work synergistically to relieve symptoms such as foul yellow vaginal discharge, dysuria, genital itching and male genital infection. Feng Wei Cao (Herba Pteris), Ya She Huang (Herba Lippiae), and Pao Zai Cao (Herba Physalis Angulatae), indigenous herbs from Taiwan, are used to detoxify and reduce inflammation and infection of the genital organs. Di Fu Zi (Fructus Kochiae) clears heat and relieves genital itching.

        Shui Ding Xiang (Herba Ludwigiae Prostratae) and Xian Feng Cao (Herba Bidentis) are very strong herbs used in Taiwan to treat infections of the urinary system such as cystitis, urinary tract infection, nephritis, pyelonephritis, dysuria, and turbid yellow urine. These herbs reduce inflammation, clear heat, and promote diuresis.

        Bian Xu (Herba Polygoni Avicularis), Hua Shi (Talcum), Deng Xin Cao (Medulla Junci), Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis), Che Qian Zi (Semen Plantaginis), and Qu Mai (Herba Dianthi) dispel dampness in the lower jiao and promote urination. Together, they dispel water and treat lin zheng (dysuria syndrome). To prevent the diuretic herbs from draining too much fluid from the body, Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae) and Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) are added to nourish yin and blood.

        Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri) is a guiding herb to the Liver channel, which passes through the genital region. Niu Xi (Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae), descending in nature, directs the overall effect of the formula downward to the lower jiao, and thus, to the genital region.

        To enhance the overall efficacy of the formula, Tao Ren (Semen Persicae) and Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) are added to increase blood circulation to the lower jiao. Proper blood circulation increases delivery of herbs to the affected area and in exchange helps to flush out toxins in the blood. Finally, Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) is used to harmonize the formula.

        In conclusion, V-Support clears damp-heat in the lower jiao to treat infection and inflammation disorders affecting the genitourinary region.

 

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

* This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.

* This formula should be used with caution by patients with deficiency and cold of the Spleen and Stomach.

* This formula is contraindicated for long-term use. It should be discontinued when the desired effects are achieved.

* This herbal formula contains herbs that invigorate blood circulation, such as Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis). Therefore, patients who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies, such as Coumadin (warfarin), should use this formula with caution, or not at all, as there may be a higher risk of bleeding and bruising.[1]^,[2],[3]

* The following warning statement is required by the State of California: ¡§This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.¡¨

 

CLINICAL NOTES

* The powder of She Chuang Zi (Fructus Cnidii) and Ku Shen (Radix Sophorae Flavescentis) can be applied topically to relieve itching. Wash the affected area thoroughly using a mild soap and apply 5 grams of each herb onto the external genitalia, leave for 3 to 5 minutes and rinse off. Repeat this procedure twice daily. Do not use internally.

* Vaginitis tends to recur in women who have diabetes or have frequently taken antibiotics.

* When a woman has frequent recurrences of lower jiao infections, the male partner should also be checked for urethral discharge, penile lesions, other infections, past venereal disease or parasitic infection. It is best to simultaneously treat both partners to prevent recurrences of vaginitis, urinary tract infection or cystitis.

* Patients who do not respond or improve after taking antibiotics or this formula consistently for two weeks usually have chronic vaginitis. They need to take Kidney Tonic (Yang) with V-Support at a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio, respectively.

* Vaginitis is common in women during the menopausal phase, as hormonal changes may disturb the pH balance of the vagina, leading to infections.

* Women with vaginitis should be careful before, during, and after menstruation, as this is when they are most susceptible to infection. Patients should pay extra attention to personal hygiene.

* Inflammation and infection of the reproductive organs may cause local swelling and obstruction, leading to infertility. This condition is similar to damp-heat in the lower jiao in traditional Chinese medicine.

* After a bowel movement, advise the patient to wipe from front to back to avoid infection.

* Patients should be advised to urinate after sexual intercourse to prevent bacteria from infecting the urethra and from causing urinary tract infection. V-Support incorporates numerous antibiotic herbs for two important reasons. First, the use of multiple herbs within an herbal formula has been shown to increase the antibiotic effect more than tenfold. Second, isolated use of single herbs is often ineffective and increases the risk of development of bacterial and viral resistance.[4] Given these two reasons, it is necessary to combine herbs with appropriate properties to ensure effectiveness in treating the infection and minimizing the potential risk of micro-organisms developing resistance and/or mutation.

*  V-Support and Gentiana Complex both have strong effect to treat damp-heat affecting the lower jiao:

¡± V-Support has a localized effect to treat damp-heat in the genital area.

¡± Gentiana Complex has a broader effect to treat damp-heat along the Liver and Gallbladder channels from the head to the genital area.

* Vaginitis may be caused by different micro-organisms:

¡± Bacterial vaginitis is more effectively treated with V-Support.

¡± Viral vaginitis is best treated with Gentiana Complex.

 

Pulse Diagnosis by Dr. Jimmy Wei-Yen Chang:

* Du pulse, a forceful, thick, straight, and long pulse on and proximal to the left chi. It is one of the eight extra meridian pulses.

 

SUPPLEMENTARY FORMULAS

* To enhance the antibiotic effect to treat infection, use with Herbal ABX.

* For yeast infection, add Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six-Gentlemen Decoction).

* For diabetes, use with Equilibrium.

* For chronic recurrent vaginitis, use with Kidney Tonic (Yang).

* For menopausal patients, use with Balance (Heat) or Nourish.

* For prostate disorders with burning urination, use with P-Support.

* For patients who experience slight loose stools after taking V-Support, combine with GI Tonic.

* To activate blood circulation throughout the entire body, add Circulation (SJ).

* For signs and symptoms of excess fire, add Gardenia Complex.

* For bleeding, add Notoginseng 9.

* With more underlying damp and phlegm with Spleen qi deficiency, add Pinellia Complex.

 

ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT

Traditional Points:

* Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Yinlingquan (SP 9), Qihaishu (BL 24), Shangliao (BL 31), Ciliao (BL 32), Zhongliao (BL 33), Xialiao (BL 34), Guanyuan (CV 4), Sanjiaoshu (BL 22)

* Zhongji (CV 3), Qugu (CV 2), Sanyinjiao (SP 6)

 

Classic Master Tung's Points:

* Urinary tract infection (UTI): Libai (T 44.12), Yunbai (T 44.11), Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Tongbei (T 88.11), Tongwei (T 88.10), Tongshen (T 88.09), Liukuai (T 1010.16), Qikuai (T 1010.17), Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18). Bleed dark veins nearby the KI channel on the lower limb. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Yeast infection: Fuke (T 11.24), Linggu (T 22.05), Yunbai (T 44.11), Libai (T 44.12), Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Minghuang (T 88.12), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Qihuang (T 88.14)

* Genital itching: Fuke (T 11.24), Shoujie (T 22.10), Linggu (T 22.05), Tianzong (T 44.10), Yunbai (T 44.11), Libai (T 44.12), Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Minghuang (T 88.12), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Qihuang (T 88.14), Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Majinshui (T 1010.13), Makuaishui (T 1010.14), Zhenghui (T 1010.01), Renzong (T 44.08), Dizong (T 44.09)

* Genital swelling and infection: Huanchao (T 11.06), Fuke (T 11.24), Yunbai (T 44.11), Jiemeiyi (T 88.04), Jiemeier (T 88.05), Jiemeisan (T 88.06), Haibao (T 66.01). Bleed sacral area with cupping. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Vaginitis: Fuke (T 11.24), Huanchao (T 11.06), Jiemeiyi (T 88.04), Jiemeier (T 88.05), Jiemeisan (T 88.06), Libai (T 44.12), Yunbai (T 44.11), Jianzhong (T 44.06), Haibao (T 66.01), Renzong (T 44.08), Dizong (T 44.09), Tianzong (T 44.10). Bleed tender points on the sacral region with cupping. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Fuke (T 11.24), Huanchao (T 11.06), Qimen (T 33.01), Qijiao (T 33.02), Qizheng (T 33.03), Libai (T 44.12), Yunbai (T 44.11), Haibao (T 66.01), Huoying (T 66.03), Huozhu (T 66.04), Menjin (T 66.05), Jiemeiyi (T 88.04), Jiemeier (T 88.05), Jiemeisan (T 88.06), Mufu (T 88.38)*, Tongtian (T 88.03), Renhuang (T 77.21), Shuijing (T 66.13)

*  Leukorrhea: Fuke (T 11.24), Yunbai (T 44.11), Libai (T 44.12), Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Jiemeiyi (T 88.04), Jiemeier (T 88.05), Jiemeisan (T 88.06), Qimen (T 33.01), Qijiao (T 33.02), Qizheng (T 33.03), Haibao (T 66.01), Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18), Mufu (T 66.02), Renzong (T 44.08), Dizong (T 44.09), Tianzong (T 44.10). Bleed tender points on the low back and sacral regions with cupping. Bleed before needling for best result.

* Pyelonephritis: Shuijin (T 1010.20), Shuitong (T 1010.19), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09), Tongshen (T 88.09), Tongguan (T 88.01), Houzhui (T 44.02), Shouying (T 44.03)

* Dysuria: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Yunbai (T 44.11), Libai (T 44.12), Majinshui (T 1010.13), Makuaishui (T 1010.14), Fenzhishang (T DT.01), Fenzhixia (T DT.02)

 

Master Tung¡¦s Points by Dr. Chuan-Min Wang:

* Yeast infection, damp-heat in the lower jiao: Shuixiang (T 66.14), Huoying (T 66.03)

 

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan:

* Left side: Dadu (SP 2), Taibai (SP 3), Taixi (KI 3), Dazhong (KI 4), Taichong (LR 3), Hegu (LI 4), Yangxi (LI 5)

* Right side: Zhiyin (BL 67), Zuqiaoyin (GB 44), Daling (PC 7), Lieque (LU 7)

 

Auricular Medicine by Dr. Li-Chun Huang:

* Vaginitis: Allergic area, Shenmen, Occiput, Nervous Subcortex, Lung, Diaphragm, Spleen, Liver. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Excessive vaginal discharge: Uterus, Cervix, Kidney, Liver, Spleen, San Jiao, Endocrine, Lower Jiao, Adrenal Gland, Pelvic. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Salpingitis (fallopian tube): Fallopian Tube, Lower Jiao, Liver, San Jiao, Endocrine. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Adnexitis: Adnexa, Lower Jiao, Kidney, Liver, San Jiao, Endocrine. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Cystitis: Bladder, Urethra, Lower Jiao, Endocrine. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Pelvic inflammation: Pelvic, Kidney, Liver, San Jiao, Endocrine, Lower Jiao. Bleed Ear Apex.

* Cervicitis: Cervix, Kidney, Liver, Spleen, San Jiao, Endocrine, Lower Jiao. Bleed Ear Apex.

* UTI: Urethra, Male-Prostate, Female-Internal Urethra, Liver, Adrenal Gland, Lower Jiao, Endocrine. Bleed Ear Apex

* Pyelonephritis: Kidney, Bladder, Urethra, Spleen, San Jiao, Adrenal Gland, Endocrine, Allergic Area. Bleed Ear Apex.

 

NUTRITION

* Natural, plain yogurt with live cultures helps to minimize yeast infection by establishing a normal environment in the genital tract.

* Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, which provide the nutrients needed to resist infection and facilitate healing.

* Regular consumption of unsweetened cranberry juice will help to prevent and treat urinary tract infection.

* Warm and hot natured foods that damage qi and yin should be avoided, such as:

¡± certain fruits like mango and durian that produce heat.

¡± stimulants like coffee, alcohol, and energy drinks.

¡± spicy/pungent/aromatic vegetables such as pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, funnel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi.

* Avoid food and drinks with artificial coloring.

*  Consume as few meat products as possible. Do not eat processed meats, such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages, as they contain nitrites that are associated with inflammation and chronic disease.

 

The Tao of Nutrition by Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease:

* Candida yeast infection

¡± Recommendations: dandelions, beet tops, carrot tops, barley, garlic, rice vinegar, mung beans, and citrus fruits.

¡± Avoid sugar, excessive fruits, yeast-containing foods, processed foods, cheese, fermented foods, soy sauce, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine.

* Chronic bladder infections

¡± Recommendations: watermelon, pears, carrots, celery, corn, mung beans, corn-silk, squash, wheat, water chestnuts, barley, red beans, millet, oranges, cantaloupe, grapes, strawberries, lotus roots, loquats, and plenty of water.

¡± Drink watermelon and pear juice three times daily.

¡± Drink carrot and celery juice three times daily.

¡± Eat squash soup for at least seven days.

¡± Drink blended mung bean juice.

¡± Drink fresh strawberry or unsweetened cranberry juice.

¡± Drink tea made from wheat and pearl barley.

¡± Avoid heavy proteins, meat, dairy products, onions, scallions, ginger, black pepper, and alcohol.

 

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

* During the treatment period, avoid sexual intercourse to prevent further irritation or infection, and to prevent spreading the infection to one¡¦s partner.

* Substances that irritate the genital area should be avoided, such as spermicides, lubricants, condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges. Select toilet tissue or feminine hygiene products that are not dyed, chlorine-bleached, or scented.

* Use hypo-allergenic or fragrance-free substances whenever possible, such as fabric softener, soap, laundry detergents, deodorant sprays, bathwater additives, shower gels, and related products.

* Candida cannot be killed with the normal washing and drying methods. Patients suffering from yeast infection can try to soak their underwear in bleach for 24 hours before washing them. Ironing may also be an alternative as candida is killed at high temperatures.

* Refrain from douching or the insertion of foreign objects in the vagina. In the case of severe itching, refrain from scratching or from excessive washing of the affected area.

* Wear loose clothing and refrain from wearing tight slacks, vinyl, or tight denim. Wear silk or cotton underwear for better ventilation. Avoid polyester, snug, nonporous or nonabsorbent underpants.

* Patients with urinary tract infections and cystitis should drink more water (more frequently) and urinate more often to prevent pathogens from lingering in the urinary tract and bladder.

 

CASE STUDIES

* M.D., a 42-year-old female, presented with an acute urinary tract infection (UTI) with symptoms of burning pain upon urination. The patient has had a history of Hodgkin¡¦s lymphoma, underwent chemotherapy, and continues getting UTIs. Usually cranberry juice prevents them; however, this time it was unsuccessful so the patient was thinking of getting antibiotics. The TCM diagnosis was damp-heat in the Urinary Bladder. This condition was treated with V-Support at four spoonfuls twice a day until her symptoms resolved. As symptoms of UTI resolved, the patient did not need to go get antibiotics. The patient was very happy. Submitted by M.M., Alameda, California.

* L.R., a 53-year-old female patient, who was a smoker and a fast-paced business woman, presented with frequent urinary tract infections (UTI) and herpes breakouts. Her eating habits consisted of spicy food, coffee, and wine. The patient had been experiencing burning and pressure, and had been taking antibiotics. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as damp-heat in the lower jiao. She was treated with Herbal ABX three pills four times daily along with V-Support at the same dosage. For topical treatment to the affected area, Yin Care was applied three times daily at 50% the recommended amount. After the infection had cleared, the patient was then directed to take Nourish at three pills three times daily. The patient healed quickly, complete relief of pain was present, and she had committed to eliminate smoking, coffee, and spicy food from her lifestyle. Submitted by L.W., Arroyo Grande, California.

* J.C., a 49-year-old female, presented with vaginal infection with symptoms of severe itching and burning within the area. Her blood pressure was 102/64 mmHg and heart rate was 57 beats per minute. Pulse was rapid and tongue was red with swollen sides and yellow coating. The TCM diagnosis was damp-heat in the lower jiao. V-Support was prescribed at 3 capsules two times per day. After taking the herbs for two weeks the infection had resolved. Submitted by M.P., Muskego, Wisconsin.

* A 27-year-old female clerk presented with bloating and inability to urinate. Pain and a burning sensation also followed upon urination. The color of her urine was yellow. She had a red tongue color with a dry tongue coating, which appeared yellow towards the base. Pulse analysis was rapid and rolling. A Western diagnosis assessment of urinary tract infection (UTI) was concluded, with a TCM diagnosis of damp-heat in the lower jiao. The patient started urinating immediately after the treatment with V-Support. Urinary tract infection was resolved within 10 days of continuous administration of V-Support. Submitted by T.G., Albuquerque, New Mexico.

* J.H., an 83-year-old diabetic female, presented with a recent history of episodes of burning, painful, dribbling and frequent urination. The urgency and pressure woke her at night and she would have to get up to urinate several times between bedtime and morning. The patient reported that she has had bladder infections throughout her life but these were occurring more often than in the past. Her doctor was treating the infection with Cipro (ciprofloxacin) and the client was tired of taking drugs and afraid of its side effects. Actual lab work was not available but the patient reported the urine analysis showed very high bacteria count in which the practitioner suspected E coli. Her blood pressure was 153/82 mmHg and heart rate was 80 beats per minute. The diagnosis was damp-heat in the lower jiao, specifically the Urinary Bladder. V-Support was prescribed at 1 to 2 capsules twice daily. The patient began taking the herbs as soon as she finished the current prescription for Cipro (ciprofloxacin). She was pleased to report that she had been symptom-free and infection-free for nearly two years of taking the prophylactic dose of the herbs. She stated that she certainly did not miss either the pain or the infection or the repeated rounds of antibiotics. The practitioner concluded that this is an excellent example of the successful use of an herbal formula as a preventative measure. Submitted by H.H., San Francisco, California.

* A 31-year-old female presented with a family history of chronic psoriasis, and outbreaks mainly on her elbows, knees and sacrum. She also suffered from vaginal itching and burning sensations. The TCM diagnosis was toxic damp-heat in the Liver. V-Support and Dermatrol (PS) were prescribed. A topical wash, Yin Care, was prescribed for external application for the psoriasis and vaginally for local itching. The patient received acupuncture and herbal treatments for two years. She was advised to stop smoking, eat less spicy food, and refrain from alcohol intake, but was unable to change her lifestyle. Nonetheless, her condition continued to improve, and she noticed that if she did not take the herbs, the symptoms would return. Submitted by M.C., Sarasota, Florida.

 

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

V-Support is designed to treat infection and inflammation of the lower abdominal region, such as vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary tract infection, cystitis, dysuria and pyelonephritis. It contains herbs with marked antibiotic effects to treat infection, anti-inflammatory activity to reduce inflammation, and diuretic effects to promote normal urination.

        Many herbs in V-Support have marked antibiotic properties. Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae) has a wide-spectrum of inhibitory effects against many bacteria and viruses. As an antibacterial agent, it is most effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It has also been shown that in cases where standard antibiotics drugs are ineffective due to pathogenic resistance, the addition of Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae) will restore the bacteriocidal and bacteriostatic activities of the antibiotic drugs.[5] Furthermore, it was discovered that the effectiveness of standard antibiotics, such as ampicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin and cefotaxime, can be potentiated with the addition of baicalin, a flavone isolated from this herb. With the addition of baicalin, the effectiveness of these beta-lactam antibiotics was restored against beta-lactam-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).[6]^,[7] Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae) also has a wide spectrum of antiviral activities. Specifically, baicalein and wogonin, two compounds from the herb, boost innate antiviral immunity by stimulating the production of cytokines and increasing the resistance to viral infection in human leukocytes.[8] In addition to Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae), other herbs with antibiotic properties include Long Dan (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae),[9] Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae),[10] Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei),[11] Bian Xu (Herba Polygoni Avicularis),[12] Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri),[13] and Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis).[14] In fact, some of these herbs have potent, wide-spectrum inhibitory effects against micro-organisms that are most often found to cause genitourinary infections.[15]

        In addition to having antibiotic properties, many herbs have potent effects to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The combination of these herbs significantly suppresses capillary permeability, reduces inflammation and swelling, and alleviates pain. Herbs with marked anti-inflammatory effects include Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae),[16] Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri),[17] Niu Xi (Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae),[18] Tao Ren (Semen Persicae),[19] Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae),[20] Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis),[21] and Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae).[22] Among the herbs having clearly-identified analgesic effects are Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei), Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae), and Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae).[23]^,[24],[25]  Many herbs in V-Support promote normal urination to alleviate burning sensations and pain associated with infection and inflammation of the genito-urinary tract. Herbs with diuretic influence include Long Dan (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae), Bian Xu (Herba Polygoni Avicularis), Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis) and Qu Mai (Herba Dianthi).[26]^{,[27],[28],[29],[30]}

        In addition to their general pharmacological effects, some herbs have specific influence against certain disorders. For example, the combination of Hua Shi (Talcum) and Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) was effective in treating 10 patients with urinary tract infection, within three to four days.[31] In another study, 58 patients with dysuria were successfully treated with an herbal formula that contained Long Dan (Radix et Rhizoma Gentianae), Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri), Ze Xie (Rhizoma Alismatis), Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae), Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae), and Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae).[32] For chronic nephritis, the daily administration of 60 grams of Deng Xin Cao (Medulla Junci) was associated with complete recovery within thirty days in 25 out of 30 patients.[33] Lastly, 33 patients with acute nephritis were treated by injection of a 20% Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) solution to key acupuncture points once daily, with good results.[34]

        In summary, V-Support is an excellent formula to treat infection and inflammation of the genitourinary tract, such as vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary tract infection, cystitis, dysuria, pyelonephritis, and infertility in women due to inflammation and infection.

 

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

There are many disorders characterized by infection and inflammation of genital regions, including vaginitis, cystitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and urinary tract infection. In Western medicine, these conditions are generally treated with antibiotic drugs, including antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents. As a category, these drugs are very effective to treat such infections and inflammations. However, these drugs are very potent, and may cause many side effects, such as secondary infection.

        Herbal therapy is also very effective for treating these infections and inflammations. Many herbs have been shown to have marked antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Furthermore, some have analgesic effects to relieve pain, and others have diuretic effects to relieve dysuria. Lastly, though these herbs are generally safe, they should be discontinued once the desired effects are achieved, as extended use may consume and weaken the body.

        Drugs and herbs are both effective for treating infections and inflammations of the genitourinary system. In general, drugs are more effective for bacterial and fungal infections, but their safety profiles vary depending on the exact antibiotic prescribed. Herbs are equally effective for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. For severe infections and inflammations, herbs are slightly less potent than drugs, but are much safer and have significantly fewer side effects. Lastly, in both therapies, the chosen substance(s) should always be taken until the course of therapy is completed. Those who have weakness and deficiency from the infection and/or its treatment should take tonic herbs to strengthen the body and facilitate recovery.