Anti-fibrotic effects of Saengmaek-san, a prescription of traditional Korean medicine in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mice model

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Saengmaek-san (SMS) is a herbal prescription comprising Liriope platyphylla, Panax ginseng, and Schisandra chinensis. In traditional Korean medicine (TKM), SMS has been used to treat a condition known as the dual deficiency of qi and yin in the lungs, a syndrome characterized by the depletion of vitality and body fluids, often resulting from heat exhaustion. SMS has primarily been used to promote fluid production, alleviate dry cough, and relieve progressive dyspnea. Aim of the study: The current study was planned to explore the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of SMS in managing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Materials and methods: In mice with bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, the SMS water extract was administered at doses of 50, 150, and 450 mg/kg twice daily for 14 days. The extent of pulmonary fibrosis was assessed using the Ashcroft scale in stained lung tissues. The levels of transforming growth factor-β, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen accumulation were also evaluated. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected to measure the total cell counts, white blood cell ratios, and cytokine levels (IL-6 and IL-10). Results: We observed statistically significant and potential anti-fibrotic effects in the SMS 450 mg/kg treatment group in terms of preventing body weight loss, decreasing Ashcroft scale, and reducing macrophage and granulocyte counts in BALF, as well as reducing α-SMA and collagen production. Additionally, an increase was observed in the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Conclusions: SMS demonstrated potential as a therapeutic candidate for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by exerting anti-inflammatory effects and reducing collagen deposition. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.