Investigating the mechanism of action of the herbal pair Schizonepeta tenuifolia Briq. and Saposhnikovia Divaricata and their active components in common allergic skin diseases.

Abstract

Allergic skin diseases (ASDs), including atopic dermatitis (AD), urticaria, and eczema, are common inflammatory skin disorders characterized by allergic responses, chronic progression, and frequent recurrence. In clinical practice, pharmacological agents such as antihistamines, glucocorticoids, and antibiotics are commonly used to relieve pruritus and inflammation. However, their relatively limited mechanisms of action, potential adverse effects after long-term use, and frequent symptom recurrence after withdrawal remain important clinical challenges. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)has attracted increasing attention because of its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway regulatory characteristics. The herbal pair Schizonepeta tenuifolia Briq. -Saposhnikovia divaricata (ST-SD) has long been used to treat allergic and inflammatory skin conditions and exhibits anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and anti-allergic effects. This review aims to systematically summarize the traditional applications, modern pharmacological evidence, active anti-allergic constituents, and molecular mechanisms of ST-SD and its active components in common ASDs. Particular attention is given to mechanisms involving inflammatory regulation, oxidative stress inhibition, immune modulation, barrier protection, and pruritus relief. Furthermore, the potential synergy between ST and SD is discussed in terms of complementary chemical constituents and convergent biological pathways. This review provides a mechanistic framework for understanding the therapeutic value of ST-SD in ASDs and offers a scientific basis for the discovery and development of natural anti-allergic agents.