Therapeutic Potential of a Modified Gui-Zhi (Cinnamomi ramulus) and Shao-Yao (Paeoniae radix Alba) Decoction for Postcolonoscopy Pain: A Herbal Acupoint Application Study

Background and Objectives: Gui-Zhi (Cinnamomi ramulus) and Shao-Yao (Paeoniae radix Alba) are traditional Chinese medicinal herbs with well-documented analgesic and antispasmodic properties. This study explores the efficacy of a modified herbal decoction comprising these two herbs applied via acupoint therapy to alleviate postcolonoscopy pain (PCP). Materials and Methods: In this randomized cohort trial, 60 patients undergoing colonoscopy were divided into a control group (standard care) and a treatment group (standard care combined with acupoint application of the modified Gui-Zhi and Shao-Yao decoction). The visual analog scale (VAS) and Modified Gloucester Comfort Scale (MGCS) were used to evaluate pain and discomfort at 1-, 6-, and 24-h postprocedure, respectively. Results: The treatment group demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at all time points compared to the control group (p < .05), with rapid improvement in comfort levels. Enhanced borborygmus at 6-h postprocedure further suggested restoration of gastrointestinal motility. No significant changes in blood pressure or heart rate were observed. Conclusion: The acupoint application of a modified decoction containing Gui-Zhi and Shao-Yao offers a promising plantbased therapeutic approach to PCP management, aligning with pharmacognosy principles. Its efficacy and safety merit further investigation in clinical herbal medicine.