ABSTRACT
[Objective] To investigate the therapeutic effect of Shugan Jianpi Decoction , a formula mainly composed of Radix Bupleuri, Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae, Radix Codonopsis, Radix Astragali, Placenta Hominis, etc., in treating iron-deficiency anemia and to explore its mechanism. [Methods] One hundred and seventy-one cases of iron-deficiency anemia were randomized to two groups: group A was treated with Shugan Jianpi Decoction and group B with ferrous sulfate for 4 weeks. Symptoms and signs of anemia were observed and levels of hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and serum ferrin (SF) were detected before and after treatment to evaluate the effects of the two drugs. [Results] The symptoms and signs of anemia were improved and levels of Hb, RBC, MCH and SF were increased after treatment in the two groups ( P