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. Purpose 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.