Saikogenin D is isolated from Bupleurum chinense, has anti-inflammatory effects. Saikogenin D activates epoxygenases that converts arachidonic acid to epoxyeicosanoids and dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids, and the metabolites secondarily inhibit prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. Saikogenin D results in an elevation of [Ca2+]i due to Ca2+ release from intracellular stores[1][2].
[1]. Toriniwa Y, et al. Participation of epoxygenase activation in saikogenin D-induced inhibition of prostaglandin E(2) synthesis.J Pharm Pharmacol. 2006 Jun;58(6):859-66. [2]. Kodama Y, et al. Dual effect of saikogenin D: in vitro inhibition of prostaglandin E2 production and elevation of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration in C6 rat glioma cells.Planta Med. 2003 Aug;69(8):765-7.