yinianjin

Yinianjin is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula with over 400 years of history in Chinese pediatric practice. It is a multi-herb preparation composed of cinnabar (a mercury-containing mineral, approximately 5.66% w/w), rhubarb, stir-fried morning glory seeds (Pharbitidis Semen), areca nut (Arecae Semen), and ginseng. Yinianjin is primarily used in pediatric patients (aged 0 to 6 years) to promote digestion, eliminate phlegm, and relieve constipation. A transdermal patch formulation of the formula, known as YNJ patch (YNJP), has been developed to mitigate the mercury exposure and low bioavailability associated with oral administration. YNJP has been shown to enhance intestinal motility and propulsion by regulating the expression of mucin 2 (MUC2), aquaporin 3 (AQP3), and tight junction protein 1 (TJP1), while promoting the release of endocrine homeostatic transmitters and Lactobacilli-mediated short-chain fatty acids.