kakkonto

Kakkonto is a traditional Japanese Kampo medicine (Kudzu Decoction) composed of seven herbal ingredients: Puerariae Radix, Ephedrae Herba, Cinnamomi Cortex, Paeoniae Radix, Glycyrrhizae Radix, Zingiberis Rhizoma, and Ziziphi Fructus. It is traditionally used in Japan for the treatment of the early stages of acute febrile diseases, such as the common cold and influenza, as well as inflammatory conditions like stiff neck and shoulders. Its mechanism of action involves anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and immunomodulatory effects, likely mediated by components such as ephedrine (from Ephedra) and glycyrrhizin (from Licorice). Recently, it has been investigated in clinical trials (e.g., IMJEDI study-R1) as an add-on therapy for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression.

Brand names

Tsumura KakkontoKracie Kakkonto

Other names

Kudzu DecoctionGe-Gen-Tang