Research Projects

The mechanistic study of Nao Xin Qing (NXQ) for regulating insomnia related neurotransmitters

NICM Health Research Institute are investigating if a herbal preparation made from persimmon leaf extract, called Nao Xing Qing (NXQ), can help treat insomnia based on a multi-compound-multi-targeted approach.

Persimmon leaf extract is traditionally used to promote blood circulation and remove blood statis. In Japan, herbal tea of persimmon leaves is popularly used to lower blood pressure, protect blood vessels, and help insomnia.

Insomnia is a very common sleep disorder, and it is associated with increased risks of mortality, significant disability and (recurrent) stroke in population affected by cardiovascular diseases. Sleep is regulated by a variety of neurotransmitters and their complex network.

Previous studies and pilot data show promise for NXQ for promoting sleep and reducing insomnia by targeting these neurotransmitters.

NXQ is a proprietary herbal preparation from Hutchison Whampoa Guangzhou Baiyunshan Chinese Medicine Co., LTD

Researchers: Dr Xian (Phoebe) Zhou, Professor Dennis Chang
Partner/Funding Body: Hutchison Whampoa Guangzhou Baiyunshan Chinese Medicine Co., LTD

Endo@Work

Endo@Work, a research initiative and partnership between Endometriosis Australia and leading academics, is aiming to end inequality in the workplace for people living with endometriosis in Australia.

The project seeks to understand perceptions and experiences of individuals with endometriosis in the workplace; explore organisational perspectives on providing practical and appropriate support and draw on these experiences and perspectives to shape guidelines and recommendations for Australian employers.

The research team from Western Sydney University, Southern Cross University, University of St Andrews (Scotland) and the University of Technology Sydney are undertaking a survey of people's experience of, and views on endometriosis in the workplace.

Researchers: Associate Professor Mike Armour
Partner/Funding Body: Endometriosis Australia

Medicinal Cannabis and Endometriosis

NICM Health Research Institute's Associate Professor Mike Amour is leading a number of medicinal cannabis studies in endometriosis and other gynaecological and menstrual conditions.

The multidisciplinary projects will involve academics, researchers, medical professionals and endometriosis advocates from Western Sydney University, Deakin University, Macquarie University, University of Tasmania, UNSW Sydney, the University of Sydney, the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand, Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick, Endometriosis Australia and the National Endometriosis Clinical and Scientific Trials Network.

Researchers: Associate Professor Mike Armour