Pharmacological treatments of Chinese herbal medicine for irritable bowel syndrome in adults: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

2021|PLoS ONE|Wu YB, Dai YK, Zhang L, Pan HG, Chen WJ, Li RL, Hu L

Strong

Study Type

systematic review

Human / Animal / In Vitro

human

Sample Size

3323

Evidence Snapshot

Traditional Use

Strong

Human Evidence

Strong

Research Consistency

Insufficient

Safety Evidence

Insufficient

Abstract

This network meta-analysis of 28 RCTs involving 3,323 patients evaluated Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for IBS. Jianpi-Chushi therapy showed significant improvement in adequate relief and IBS symptom severity scale (IBS-SSS). Shugan-Jianpi therapy showed the best efficacy in relieving abdominal pain and distension. Wenshen-Jianpi therapy had a better effect on avoiding adverse effects and improving stool character. GRADE evidence quality: Low.

Original Source

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255665

PubMed ID: 34358263

References

References are being reviewed

Published July 2, 2026Reviewed content

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