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Diabetes & Weight Management

Diabetes Overview

Epidemiology in the United States: Currently, approximately 38 million Americans have diabetes, including both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases (CDC, 2024). Age-adjusted prevalence has steadily increased over the past 5, 10, and 15 years, rising from about 8.1% (2008-2011) to 11.3% (2021-2023). Diabetes prevalence increases with age and varies among different racial and ethnic groups.

Type 2 Diabetes: Accounts for 90-95% of all diabetes cases. Associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and lifestyle factors. Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to complications including neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases.

Global Impact: Diabetes is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, leading to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and lower-limb amputations. In 2019, diabetes was directly responsible for 1.5 million deaths globally (World Health Organization, 2020).

Impact of Obesity:  Adults with obesity have a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes. For total diabetes, it’s 24.2% in adults with obesity, compared to 6.8% in those of normal weight.

Pathophysiology

Youth mental health: Anxiety, depression, and suicide risk remain elevated; 40% of U.S. high-schoolers reported persistent sadness or hopelessness in 2023 [2].

Insulin Resistance

In Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance occurs in the muscle, liver, and fat cells, which prevents glucose from entering the cells. As a result, blood glucose levels remain high.

Beta-Cell Dysfunction

Over time, the pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin due to the dysfunction of insulin-secreting beta cells. This leads to a further increase in blood sugar levels.

Type 1 Diabetes Pathophysiology

In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a complete lack of insulin production.

Complications

Chronic high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) can cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Western Medicine Approach

  • Metformin (Glucophage): Reduces hepatic glucose production, improves insulin sensitivity; side effects include gastrointestinal issues and rare lactic acidosis.
  • Sulfonylureas: Stimulate insulin secretion; risks include hypoglycemia and weight gain.
  • DPP-4 Inhibitors: Enhance postprandial insulin release; low hypoglycemia risk, possible gastrointestinal effects.
  • SGLT2 Inhibitors: Promote glucose excretion in urine; benefits include weight loss and cardioprotection; risks include genital infections and dehydration.
  • GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Stimulate insulin secretion and inhibit glucagon; promote weight loss, low hypoglycemia risk, possible gastrointestinal effects.
  • Thiazolidinediones: Improve insulin sensitivity; risks include weight gain, fluid retention, bone fractures.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

Pathogenesis: Diabetes in TCM is referred to as Xiao Ke (wasting-thirst syndrome). Causes include Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yin deficiency, Liver Qi stagnation, excessive heat from poor diet, and emotional stress.

Diagnosis: Based on pulse, tongue, and symptom inquiry (thirst, frequent urination, hunger, fatigue).

Treatment Principles: Focus on tonifying Zheng Qi (vital energy) to restore balance. Herbal formulations aim to nourish the Spleen and Kidney, clear heat, reduce dampness, and enhance glucose metabolism.

Herbal Treatments: Key herbs include Huang Lian, Morus Alba, Artemisia Capillaris, Lysimachia Extract, Sheng Di Huang, Sang Shen Zi, Jinqian Cao, and Yin Chen Hao. Mechanisms include lowering blood glucose, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing glucose metabolism, and protecting the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Understanding of Diabetes

In TCM, diabetes is called “Xiao Ke” (消渴), meaning “wasting thirst.” It is characterized by excessive thirst, frequent urination, and extreme hunger, arising from imbalances in the body’s Qi, Yin, Yang, blood, and fluids.

TCM Pathogenesis of Diabetes

TCM views diabetes as a dysfunction of the Spleen, Kidney, and Liver systems:

Spleen Qi Deficiency

Weak Spleen fails to transform food and fluids into Qi and Blood, leading to dampness and phlegm accumulation, which generates heat and contributes to thirst, frequent urination, and hunger.

Kidney Yin Deficiency

Lack of Kidney Yin reduces nourishment to the Liver, Heart, and Spleen and impairs fluid regulation, allowing Yang to overact, producing internal heat and excessive urination.

Liver Qi Stagnation and Blood Deficiency

Stagnant Liver Qi and poor digestion lead to heat, dryness, and insufficient blood, causing fatigue and weakness.

Heat from Excessive Consumption

High sugar and greasy foods create internal heat, further damaging Yin and body fluids.

Emotional Stress

Stress, anger, and worry affect the Liver and Spleen, causing Qi stagnation and heat accumulation, which can contribute to diabetes.

Acupuncture Treatment at Eastern Medicine Center

We incorporate acupuncture as a complementary modality for patients managing diabetes, focusing on traditional energy‑balancing techniques. Acupuncture is used alongside standard medical care. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we emphasize the concept that “Zheng Qi” (正气, or vital energy) must be strong in order to prevent the invasion of Xie Qi (邪气, or pathogenic factors). Chronic conditions like diabetes arise when the body’s Zheng Qi is insufficient, allowing Xie Qi to enter and disrupt the balance. Therefore, our primary focus during treatment is to tonify and strengthen the Zheng Qi, which serves as the foundation for combating the disease.

Our approach in treating diabetes starts by focusing on reinforcing the vital energy, particularly the original Qi. The main acupuncture points used to support and enhance the Zheng Qi include:

Qihai (气海, CV6)

This point is important for boosting Qi and revitalizing the body’s energy reserves.

Guanyuan (关元, CV4)

This point nourishes the Kidney Qi, which is essential for sustaining life force and energy.

Zhongwan (中脘, CV12)

This point regulates the Spleen Qi, which is responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption, ensuring that the body has the energy it needs.

Tianshu (天枢, ST25)

Located on the abdomen, this point is used to regulate the digestive function and improve the Spleen and Stomach Qi, which helps in managing blood sugar levels.

Zusanli (足三里, ST36)

This point strengthens the Spleen and Stomach Qi, boosts overall vitality, and improves digestion, which is crucial for balancing blood sugar.

Supplemental Points:

  • Dampness: Yinlingquan (SP9)
  • Phlegm (obesity): Fenglong (ST40)
  • Stress: Sishencong, Yintang, Neiguan (PC6), Sanyinjiao (SP6)

By focusing on tonifying the Zheng Qi and addressing the pathogenic factors, we create a balanced environment where the body’s energy can restore itself, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing metabolism, and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Sugar Down – Herbal Product

Sugar Down is an herbal formula combining traditional ingredients such as Huang Lian, Jinqian Cao, Morus Alba, Sheng Di Huang, Yin Chen Hao, and other potent herbs. It is intended to be part of an overall wellness plan, developed based on Siwei Xiansheng traditional principles. Herbs act synergistically and may help lower blood glucose, enhance insulin sensitivity, regulate glucose metabolism, and protect the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

Sol Nutrition Sugar Down

References

  1. American Diabetes Association. (2021). Diabetes Care, 44(S1), S15-S33.
  2. MedlinePlus. Diabetes Medications. https://medlineplus.gov/diabetesmedications.html
  3. Mayo Clinic. Diabetes medications. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20320558
  4. Kong, W., et al. (2014). Diabetes Care, 37(5), 1335-1343.
  5. Lee, H. S., & Yook, T. H. (2015). Phytotherapy Research, 29(8), 1103-1109.
  6. Zhang, X., et al. (2010). Food and Chemical Toxicology, 48(11), 3217-3222.
  7. Li, J., & Zhang, W. (2011). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 134(1), 33-38.
  8. UC Davis Health. (2022). Efficacy of acupuncture vs. pharmacological treatment. https://health.ucdavis.edu/nursing/news/Events/PDF/2022-academic-symposium/efficacy-of-acupuncture%20vs.%20pharm%20treatment.pdf
  9. ScienceDirect. (2023). The effect of acupuncture on metabolic disorders. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589377724000582
  10. Frontiers in Endocrinology. (2024). Meta-analysis of auricular acupuncture for T2DM. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1424304/full
  11. Open Nursing Journal. (2022). Acupuncture for diabetes: Combining points. https://opennursingjournal.com/VOLUME/18/ELOCATOR/e18744346310777/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
  12. Health, UC Davis. (2022). Efficacy of acupuncture vs. pharmacological treatment for diabetes. Retrieved from https://health.ucdavis.edu/nursing/news/Events/PDF/2022-academic-symposium/efficacy-of-acupuncture%20vs.%20pharm%20treatment.pdf
  13. ScienceDirect. (2023). The effect of acupuncture on metabolic disorders and blood sugar regulation. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 34(2), 120-134. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.10.050
  14. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies. (2023). Acupuncture points and their role in regulating glucose metabolism. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 21(3), 78-89. DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2023.02.003
  15. Frontiers in Endocrinology. (2024). Meta-analysis of auricular acupuncture for type 2 diabetes: Efficacy and mechanisms. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 15, 200-215. DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1424304
  16. Open Nursing Journal. (2022). Acupuncture for diabetes: Combining points for effective treatment. Open Nursing Journal, 18, 77-85. DOI: 10.2174/18744346310777



Weight Management at Eastern Medicine Center

An integrative approach using Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and lifestyle.

Why Weight Management Matters

Obesity and overweight are common, complex, and treatable medical conditions. Globally, about 1 in 8 people were living with obesity in 2022, and 43% of adults were overweight. In the United States, recent national surveys estimate that about 4 in 10 adults have obesity. Childhood obesity affects roughly 1 in 5 children and adolescents. Excess weight increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. [1–4]

The Current Landscape (U.S.)

• Adult obesity: 40% during Aug 2021–Aug 2023 (with 10% severe obesity). [2,3]
• Every U.S. state now reports adult obesity prevalence above 20% (2023 maps). [4]
• Youth: Approximately 1 in 5 U.S. children/adolescents have obesity. [5]

Why Is This Happening? (Root Causes We Address)

Weight gain arises from the interaction of biology and environment. Common drivers include:
• Nutrition quality and food environment (energy-dense, ultra-processed options; added sugars).
• Sleep debt and circadian disruption, chronic stress, and low physical activity.
• Medications and medical conditions that alter appetite or metabolism (e.g., some antidepressants, steroids, endocrine conditions).
• Environmental factors such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals that may promote adiposity (“obesogens”). [6–8]

How TCM Understands Weight & Metabolism

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), unwanted weight is often viewed as patterns such as Spleen Qi deficiency with Dampness/Phlegm, Liver Qi stagnation with Heat, or Yang deficiency with Cold and fluid retention. Treatment aims to restore the body’s self-regulation “when righteous Qi is strong, pathogenic factors cannot invade” (正气存内, 邪不可干), by supporting digestion and transformation, moving Qi and Blood, clearing Heat/Damp, and calming the mind for better sleep and cravings control.

Acupuncture: What Our Findings Suggests

Modern research suggests acupuncture can complement lifestyle changes to support weight management:
• Systematic reviews and network meta-analyses report reductions in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference versus usual care, with electroacupuncture and auricular approaches frequently studied. [9–12]
• An updated review (2024–2025) concludes acupuncture may enhance lifestyle-based weight loss and improve glucose/lipid markers; quality of trials varies and more rigorous RCTs are needed. [9,10,12]
• Safety: Adverse effects are uncommon and usually mild when performed by trained professionals. [9–12]

Common point strategies (individualized): ST36, SP6, LI4, RN12, ST25, SP9; ear points such as Shenmen, Stomach, Endocrine, Hunger. Frequency: 1–2 sessions/week initially for 6–8 weeks, then taper based on response.

Herbal Medicine: Targeted Support

TCM formulas are selected by pattern, not by a single symptom. For weight-related patterns we often tonify Spleen Qi, transform Damp/Phlegm, move Liver Qi, and support metabolic health. Evidence for individual herbs and formulas is emerging but heterogeneous; we use research to inform, not replace, classical theory. [13–18]

Clinic Formulas We Use

Below are two house formulas frequently used as part of a comprehensive plan, Sugar Down and Healthy Liver Formula.

Sugar Down Graphic

Sugar Down Formula

Supports healthy glucose metabolism, cravings control, and post‑meal balance; commonly paired with dietary coaching and acupuncture.
Potential evidence links: Berberine-containing herbs have been studied for improving glucose and lipid metabolism and modest weight indices; conclusions remain cautious. [13,16,17]

  • SOL Pancreas Support Blend: Coptis (Huang Lian) extract; Lysimachia (Jin Qian Cao) extract; Artemisia capillaris (Yinchenhao) extract.
  • SOL Sugar Down Blend: Morus alba extract; Rehmannia (Chinese foxglove root) extract; Corn Silk extract; Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) extract; Astragalus root extract; Alisma root extract; Gynostemma extract.
  • Blends and ingredients:

Concentration: 15:1 extracts. Every 2 capsules = 15,000 mg dry herb equivalent. Vegan; Non‑GMO; Gluten‑free; GMP‑certified. Other ingredients: vegetable cellulose capsule.

Healthy Liver Formula

Although named “Healthy Liver,” this formula is chosen not only for hepatic support (enzymes, bile/flow, fat metabolism) but also to complement pancreatic and metabolic function in applicable TCM patterns (e.g., Liver Qi stagnation with Damp/Phlegm). Some components such as Schisandra, Artemisia capillaris, Bupleurum, and Polygonum cuspidatum, have emerging human and preclinical evidence related to liver health, lipid/glucose modulation, and weight‑related metabolic markers. We pair it with Sugar Down when both Liver and Spleen/Pancreas support are indicated.

  • SOL Liver Protection Blend: Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) extract; Lycium barbarum (Goji) extract; Salvia root (Dan Shen) extract; Polygonum cuspidatum (Hu Zhang) extract; Bupleurum (Chai Hu) extract.
  • SOL Liver Detox Blend: 540 mg: Dandelion extract; Artemisia capillaris (Yinchenhao) extract; Turmeric (Curcuma longa) extract; Red Peony (Paeonia) extract.
  • Blends and ingredients:

Concentration: 15:1 extracts. Every 2 capsules =15,000 mg dry herb equivalent. Vegan; Non‑GMO; Gluten‑free; GMP‑certified. Other ingredients: vegetable cellulose capsule.

Serving size: 2 capsules | Servings per container: 30

Design & intent: Supports Liver Qi flow, bile and fat metabolism, and gentle detox support; often considered when fatty liver or dyslipidemia co-exists.

Potential evidence links: Traditional herbs such as Artemisia capillaris (Yinchenhao) and Schisandra have early human and preclinical data for liver enzymes, NAFLD markers, and antioxidant activity. [14,15,18]

Our Approach at Eastern Medicine Center

Comprehensive intake

In Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance occurs in the muscle, liver, and fat cells, which prevents glucose from entering the cells. As a result, blood glucose levels remain high.

Individualized Plan

Acupuncture, herbal formula(s), nutrition and movement coaching, sleep-stress protocols, and practical habit tools.

Follow‑up & Iteration

Visits every 1–2 weeks initially; we adjust points and formulas as your body changes.

Coordination of Care

We collaborate with your primary and specialty providers, and can work alongside medications (including GLP‑1s) when appropriate.

Self-Care Pillars We Emphasize

• Food quality & timing: Emphasize fiber-rich whole foods, adequate protein, minimally processed choices; steady meal timing to support circadian rhythm.
• Sleep: 7–9 hours with consistent schedule; address snoring/apnea risk when present.
• Movement: Daily walking, resistance training 2–3×/week; build non‑exercise activity into the day.
• Stress: Brief daily practices (breathwork, meditation), sunlight exposure, and community support.

Safety & Notes

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are generally safe when provided by licensed professionals. Please tell us if you are pregnant, on anticoagulants, or taking prescription medications so we can prevent interactions. Weight management is a long‑term process; results vary based on biology, lifestyle, and adherence.

References

  1. Agyemang K, et al. Recent advances in Astragalus membranaceus anti‑diabetic research. 2013. doi:10.1155/2013/654643.
  2. Ahn J, et al. Eleutheroside E ameliorates insulin resistance in db/db mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:934183. doi:10.1155/2013/934183. PMCID:PMC3638629.
  3. Alam MJ, et al. Lysimachia candida mitigates high‑fat/high‑fructose metabolic syndrome in rats: untargeted metabolomics. Mol Omics. 2023.
  4. Al‑Waili NS. 1986. Study concluding an aqueous herbal extract reduced elevated blood sugar in diabetes mellitus (details not provided).
  5. Amin A, Hamza A. Hepatoprotective effects of Hibiscus, Rosmarinus and Salvia on azathioprine toxicity in rats. Life Sci. 2005;77(3):266‑278.
  6. Baranov AI. Medicinal uses of ginseng and related plants in the Soviet Union. J Ethnopharmacol. 1982;6(3):339–353.
  7. Chevallier A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Dorling Kindersley; 1996.
  8. Chiu H‑F, et al. Improvement of liver function in humans using a mixture of Schisandra fruit extract and sesamin. Phytother Res. 2013;27(3):368‑373.
  9. Cleveland Clinic. Benefits of Corn Silk. health.clevelandclinic.org (web article).
  10. Dharmananda S. Treatment of diabetes with Chinese herbs and acupuncture. ITM; 2002. (ProQuest access).
  11. Gaman L, et al. Phytoceuticals in acute pancreatitis: apoptosis vs. necrosis. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018;2018:5264592.
  12. Gao L‑L, et al. Effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide in NAFLD: RCT protocol. Trials. 2021;22:1‑9.
  13. Goodarzi R, et al. Turmeric/curcumin supplementation and ALT/AST in NAFLD: systematic review & meta‑analysis of RCTs. Phytother Res. 2019;33(3):561‑570.
  14. Hasan SMZ, Shafie MSB, Shah RM. RAPD analysis of Artemisia capillaris in East Coast Peninsular Malaysia. World Applied Sciences Journal. 2009;6(7):976‑986.
  15. Hasanudin K, Hashim P, Mustafa S. Corn silk (Stigma maydis) in healthcare: a phytochemical and pharmacological review. Molecules. 2012;17(8):9697–9715. doi:10.3390/molecules17089697. PMID:22890173; PMCID:PMC6268265.
  16. Hsu C‑Y, Chan Y‑P, Chang J. Antioxidant activity of Polygonum cuspidatum extract. Biol Res. 2007;40(1):13‑21.
  17. Hussain F, et al. Phytopharmacological potential of different species of Morus alba and their bioactive phytochemicals: a review. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2017;7(10):950–956.
  18. ITM Online. Diabetes articles and monographs. itmonline.org.
  19. Kim SH, Yook TH, Kim JU. Rehmanniae Radix for inflammatory and metabolic diseases: review of Korean publications. J Pharmacopuncture. 2017;20(2):81–88. doi:10.3831/KPI.2017.20.010. PMCID:PMC5532465.
  20. Lankarani-Fard A, Li Z. Traditional Chinese Medicine in the management and treatment of the symptoms of diabetes. In: Nutraceuticals, Glycemic Health and Type 2 Diabetes. 2008:293–310.
  21. Lee H‑Y, et al. Turmeric extract/curcumin protects against chronic CCl4‑induced liver damage by enhancing antioxidation. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2016;16:1‑9.
  22. Lüthje P, et al. Gynostemma pentaphyllum shows anti‑inflammatory properties and modulates antimicrobial peptides in urinary bladder. J Funct Foods. 2015;17:283–292.
  23. Maggie B. Covington. Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Diabetes. Diabetes Spectrum. 2001;14(3):154–159. doi:10.2337/diaspect.14.3.154.
  24. Mansour‑Ghanaei F, et al. Curcumin/turmeric and liver enzymes in NAFLD: systematic review of RCTs. Integr Med Res. 2019;8(1):57‑61.
  25. Naghdi N. Folklore medicinal plants used in liver disease: a review. Int J Green Pharmacy. 2018;12(3).
  26. Pang B, et al. Effect of Rhizoma coptidis (Huang Lian) on treating diabetes mellitus. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015.
  27. Park J‑M, et al. Anti‑inflammatory effects of acidic polysaccharide from Artemisia capillaris on Helicobacter pylori infection. J Cancer Prev. 2013;18(2):161.
  28. Pfingstgraf IO, et al. Protective effects of Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) root extract in experimental acute‑on‑chronic liver failure. Antioxidants. 2021;10(4):504.
  29. Rui J, Cao L. Antioxidant system effects of Polygonum cuspidatum extract against CCl4‑induced liver injury (fish model). Acta Agric Universitatis Jiangxiensis. 2012.
  30. Sarin SK, et al. Acute‑on‑Chronic Liver Failure: APASL 2019 update consensus recommendations. Hepatol Int. 2019;13:353‑390. doi:10.1007/s12072‑019‑09946‑3.
  31. Subramoniam A. Plants with anti‑diabetes mellitus properties. CRC Press; 2016.
  32. Wang J, et al. Coptidis Rhizoma: traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. Pharm Biol. 2019;57(1):193–225. doi:10.1080/13880209.2019.1577466.
  33. Wang KJ, Zhao JL. Corn silk (Zea mays L.): natural antioxidants with α‑amylase/α‑glucosidase and anti‑AGE/diabetic nephropathy activities. Biomed Pharmacother. 2019;110.
  34. WebMD. Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus): overview and uses. webmd.com (monograph).
  35. Yeung H‑C. Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas. Institute of Chinese Medicine; 1985.
  36. Yuan R, et al. Schisandra chinensis acidic polysaccharide protects against acute ethanol‑induced liver injury via reducing CYP2E1‑dependent oxidative stress. Biomed Pharmacother. 2018;99:537‑542.
  37. Zhu Z‑Y, et al. Comparative evaluation of polysaccharides from Astragalus, oyster mushroom, and yacon as α‑glucosidase inhibitors. Chin J Nat Med. 2014;12(4):290–293.

[1] WHO. One in eight people are now living with obesity (2024).

[2] CDC NCHS Data Brief 508. Obesity and Severe Obesity in Adults, Aug 2021–Aug 2023.

[3] Emmerich SD et al. Obesity and Severe Obesity Prevalence in Adults, 2024.

[4] CDC. Adult Obesity Prevalence Maps — 2023.

[5] CDC. Childhood Obesity Facts (updated page).

[6] Amon M. Endocrine disrupting chemicals and obesity prevention. 2024 review.

[7] Jaskulak M. Understanding the role of endocrine disrupting chemicals (2025).

[8] Lingvay I. Obesity in adults. Lancet. 2024.

[9] Kim Y. Effectiveness and safety of acupuncture modalities for overweight/obesity: network meta-analysis of RCTs. Front Med. 2024.

[10] Hua K. Auricular stimulation meta-analysis. Front Neurosci. 2024.

[11] Kang J. Electroacupuncture for obesity: systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024.

[12] PubMed ID 39582784. Acupuncture adjunct to lifestyle interventions for simple obesity. 2024.

[13] NCCIH. Berberine and Weight Loss: What You Need to Know (2025).

[14] Liu Y. CHM in NAFLD: mechanisms & evidence. 2024 review.

[15] Addissouky TA. Schisandra in Liver Disease: small human trials, 2024 overview.

[16] Zamani M. Dose–response meta-analysis on berberine and metabolic indices. Front Nutr. 2022.

[17] Kong Y. Berberine as multi‑target agent for obesity. Eur J Med Res. 2025.

[18] Xu M. Artemisia capillaris derivatives for NAFLD models. 2025.