The therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action of baicalin in sepsis: a systematic review

Sepsis is a critical medical state considered a life-threatening response to infection, leading to extensive inflammation and potential organ dysfunction. This systematic review focuses on the therapeutic impact of baicalin on sepsis complications.Methods This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar up to May 10, 2026. We included in vitro and in vivo experimental studies of baicalin in sepsis-related models.Results Of 669 records, 41 studies met the eligibility criteria. Baicalin consistently reduced oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and activation of NF-κB, TLR4, HMGB1, and NLRP3-related pathways, while increasing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mediators. Several studies also reported improved organ protection and survival.Conclusions Baicalin appears beneficial in preclinical sepsis models, but evidence certainty is limited by heterogeneity, a lack of human studies, and the absence of a meta-analysis.