Hangekobokuto, a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, ameliorates postoperative ileus through its anti-inflammatory action.

Background/aims: Gastroprokinetic agents are used for patients with postoperative ileus (POI), and the Japanese traditional herbal medicine daikenchuto (DKT) is one such agent used in the clinical setting. POI is caused by inflammation. DKT and rikkunshito have anti-inflammatory abilities in addition to their gastroprokinetic effects.