Efficacy and safety of ephedra-containing oral medications: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and exploratory dose-response analysis for weight reduction.

Introduction: Despite the widespread use of ephedra in various forms, including food supplements and herbal prescriptions, comprehensive studies reviewing its efficacy and safety across different countries are lacking.

Methods: We systematically searched 5 electronic databases and conducted a meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ephedra-containing oral medications (EOMs), performing a dose-response analysis for weight loss.

Results: The meta-analysis results revealed a statistically significant reduction in the body mass index (BMI) (MD: 1.

Anti-Neuroinflammatory Effects of on LPS-Stimulated BV2 Cells.

(AP), the fruit peel of the betel palm, is a traditional Oriental herbal medicine. AP is used to treat various diseases and conditions, such as ascites, edema, and urinary retention, in traditional Korean medicine. Recent studies have demonstrated its anti-obesity and antibacterial effects; however, its anti-neuroinflammatory effects have not yet been reported.