Therapeutic Potential of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Comprehensive Review of Bioactive Compounds and Mechanisms of Action

Abstract

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies with increasing global incidence and mortality. Despite advancements in conventional therapies, challenges remain due to treatment resistance, adverse effects, and disease relapse. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been increasingly explored as an adjunctive and complementary approach in NHL treatment due to its multi-targeted, synergistic effects and holistic therapeutic principles. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential applications of TCM in NHL, focusing on key bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action. Several TCM-derived compounds, including ginsenosides from ginseng, triptolide from Tripterygium wilfordii, indirubin from Indigo naturalis, rosmarinic acid from Prunella vulgaris, baicalin and wogonin from Scutellaria baicalensis, icaritin from Epimedium brevicornum, and polysaccharides from Coriolus versicolor, have demonstrated significant anti-lymphoma activities through mechanisms such as apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, immune modulation, and inhibition of oncogenic signaling pathways. While TCM holds promise for NHL management, further research is needed to validate its clinical efficacy, elucidate molecular interactions, and ensure safety in combination therapies. Future investigations should focus on rigorous clinical trials, pharmacokinetics, and mechanistic studies to establish evidence-based integration of TCM into NHL treatment paradigms.