Pharmacological Effects of a Multi-herb Formulation (Qijiao Shengbai Capsule) Combined with rhG-CSF in the Management of Chemotherapy-induced Leukopenia: Emphasis on Natural Product-based Immunomodulation

Background: Qijiao Shengbai Capsule is a traditional multi-herb formulation composed of natural products including Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba), Donkey-hide gelatin (Colla corii asini), Pseudostellaria heterophylla, Epimedium brevicornum, Sophora flavescens, Astragalus membranaceus, and Angelica sinensis. These botanical and animal-derived ingredients are traditionally used to tonify Qi and blood, enhance immunity, and promote hematopoiesis. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and immunomodulatory effects of Qijiao Shengbai Capsule in combination with recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced leukopenia in patients with hematologic malignancies. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 patients with post-chemotherapy leukopenia were randomly assigned to receive either rhG-CSF alone or rhG-CSF combined with Qijiao Shengbai Capsule for 5 days. Key outcome measures included hematologic parameters, inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)), immune function markers (CD3⁺, CD4⁺, NK cells), and adverse events. Results: The observation group demonstrated a significantly higher total effectiveness rate (93.33% vs. 75.56%, p < .001). Compared with rhG-CSF alone, the addition of Qijiao Shengbai Capsule significantly increased leukocyte, platelet, and hemoglobin levels, enhanced immune cell populations, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (p < .01 for all). Adverse reaction rates were low and comparable between groups. Conclusion: Qijiao Shengbai Capsule, composed of bioactive natural ingredients, exhibits potent hematopoietic and immunomodulatory properties when combined with rhG-CSF over a 5-day treatment course, presenting a promising adjunctive treatment option for chemotherapy-induced leukopenia. These findings support the clinical and pharmacognostic relevance of this traditional herbal formulation in oncology care.