Pharmacological Research and Application of Radix Pseudostellariae in the Development of Erbao Granules

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), childhood is characterized by “the immaturity of organ function and rapid growth.” Therefore, pediatric formulations must balance tonification and gentle regulation, avoiding excessive stimulation. Radix Pseudostellariae (Taizishen) meets this criterion perfectly.

Derived from the root of Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax, Taizishen has been historically prescribed for weak constitution, poor appetite, low immunity, and post-illness recovery. Unlike ginseng, which can be too stimulating for children, Taizishen nourishes qi and fluids mildly, supporting overall vitality and developmental balance.

Erbao Granules, a representative pediatric TCM preparation, are formulated to nourish the spleen and stomach, enhance digestion, and improve immune resistance. This study explores how Radix Pseudostellariae acts as a cornerstone in the formula from both classical and modern pharmacological perspectives.

Botanical and Chemical Characteristics

The Role of Radix Pseudostellariae in Erbao Granules

Origin and Morphology

Radix Pseudostellariae is the dried root of Pseudostellaria heterophylla, cultivated mainly in Fujian, Anhui, and Guizhou provinces of China. The root is spindle-shaped, light yellowish, with a sweet taste and mild fragrance — indicative of its spleen-nourishing properties according to TCM classification.

Major Active Compounds

Modern phytochemical research has identified multiple bioactive compounds including:

• Polysaccharides (PHPs) — the major immunomodulatory and anti-fatigue constituents.

• Saponins — contribute to anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic effects.

• Amino acids and trace elements — promote metabolism and growth in children.

These constituents collectively support energy balance, enhance digestive function, and strengthen the immune system — all key therapeutic goals in pediatric care.

Pharmacological Properties

Qi-Tonifying and Digestive Enhancement

Taizishen’s primary role in Erbao Granules is replenishing qi and improving gastrointestinal function. Studies indicate that its polysaccharides promote gastric enzyme secretion, enhance intestinal absorption, and regulate gut microbiota balance.

In children with spleen qi deficiency, symptoms such as poor appetite, abdominal distension, and fatigue are common. By strengthening the spleen and promoting digestion, Taizishen restores normal appetite and nutrient assimilation, laying the foundation for healthy growth.

Immunomodulatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects

Polysaccharides extracted from Radix Pseudostellariae have shown strong immunomodulatory activity — enhancing macrophage phagocytosis, promoting T-cell proliferation, and boosting immunoglobulin synthesis.

This explains its clinical effectiveness in frequent colds, slow recovery after illness, and general weakness in children. Furthermore, its mild adaptogenic property helps improve resistance to fatigue and infections, addressing the common pediatric challenge of low immunity.

Lung-Nourishing and Fluid-Generating Actions

Taizishen moistens the lungs and promotes body fluid production. In pediatric practice, it is used for dry cough, throat irritation, or post-fever dehydration. It is particularly effective when combined with herbs like Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong) and Adenophora stricta (Sha Shen) for respiratory nourishment.

Formula Composition and Principle

Erbao Granules typically include Radix Pseudostellariae, Atractylodes macrocephala (Baizhu), Poria cocos (Fuling), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Licorice Root), Ophiopogon japonicus (Mai Dong), and Malt extract (Maiya). The formula adheres to the TCM theory of “replenishing qi, strengthening the spleen, and harmonizing the stomach.”

• Taizishen (Radix Pseudostellariae): Monarch herb — replenishes qi gently and nourishes yin.

• Baizhu & Fuling: Minister herbs — strengthen digestion and eliminate dampness.

• Mai Dong: Nourishes yin, moistens the lungs, and prevents dryness.

• Maiya: Aids digestion and prevents stagnation from tonics.

• Licorice Root: Harmonizes all ingredients and enhances flavor acceptability for children.

This balanced structure ensures a synergistic effect that supports growth while preventing over-nourishment or gastrointestinal burden.

Synergistic Mechanisms

Scientific evaluation shows that combining Taizishen with Baizhu and Fuling enhances gastrointestinal motility and increases serum total protein and albumin levels, supporting nutritional absorption. Moreover, the co-presence of polysaccharides from Taizishen and glycyrrhizic acid from Licorice provides a dual immune and anti-inflammatory modulation, ensuring both efficacy and safety for pediatric use.

Clinical Applications and Evidence

Erbao Granules are primarily used for:

• Pediatric spleen qi deficiency (poor appetite, fatigue, loose stools)

• Post-illness weakness or malnutrition

• Recurrent respiratory infections or slow recovery after fever

• General enhancement of growth, immunity, and vitality

Clinical Studies

Clinical trials demonstrate that Erbao Granules significantly improve appetite, body weight, and immune function in children aged 3–10 years after 4 weeks of treatment. Indicators such as serum IgA, IgG, and lymphocyte counts showed noticeable increases, confirming immunoenhancement.

Children receiving Erbao Granules also exhibited reduced frequency of common colds and faster recovery from respiratory illnesses. These outcomes align with the pharmacological profile of Taizishen and its synergistic companions.

Safety Profile

Because Taizishen is a mild tonic without stimulating alkaloids, the preparation has excellent tolerability. Reports of adverse effects are extremely rare, making it suitable for long-term administration in children and convalescent patients.

Pharmaceutical Development and Quality Control

Extraction and Granulation Process

In manufacturing Erbao Granules, Radix Pseudostellariae undergoes aqueous extraction under controlled temperature to preserve polysaccharides and saponins. The extract is concentrated, blended with other herbal components, and granulated using low-temperature drying to maintain bioactivity and ensure uniform particle size.

Quality Control Parameters

Analytical methods such as HPLC fingerprinting and UV spectrophotometry are employed to determine polysaccharide concentration. Each production batch is evaluated for moisture, solubility, and active content. DNA barcoding verifies the authenticity of Pseudostellaria heterophylla origin, preventing adulteration with inferior roots.

Raw Material Sourcing

The Pseudostellaria heterophylla used in Erbao Granules is primarily sourced from Fujian province, known as the authentic cultivation region (“Daodi” origin). The local microclimate and soil composition produce roots rich in polysaccharides and amino acids, ensuring consistent pharmacological potency.

Discussion

The development of Erbao Granules demonstrates the successful integration of traditional theory and modern pharmacology. Radix Pseudostellariae serves as the cornerstone for both qi reinforcement and immune enhancement, fulfilling pediatric physiological requirements for growth and resilience.

From a mechanistic standpoint, Taizishen’s bi-directional immune regulation, gut microbiota modulation, and nutritional metabolism enhancement correspond precisely to the clinical goals of pediatric tonification therapy.

Compared with synthetic pediatric tonics or vitamin supplements, Erbao Granules exhibit a holistic and natural therapeutic model, addressing both symptom relief and long-term constitutional strengthening.

Conclusion

Radix Pseudostellariae (Taizishen, Pseudostellaria Root, Prince Ginseng Root, or Heterophylly False Starwort Root) represents a pharmacologically balanced and clinically validated herbal component ideal for pediatric applications.

Its incorporation into Erbao Granules ensures safe, effective, and sustainable tonification — nourishing qi, strengthening the spleen, improving immunity, and supporting healthy growth.

Through continuous modernization in extraction technology, quality standardization, and clinical evaluation, Radix Pseudostellariae has transformed from a traditional household remedy into a scientifically standardized herbal ingredient for pediatric healthcare.