BACKGROUND: Inflammation is a key factor contributing to aging-related morbidities. Inflammation is intimately linked to the iron metabolism in macrophages, and ferritin heavy chain (Fth) is the basis of iron metabolism in macrophages. Regulating Fth to control iron metabolism may help to reduce inflammation in macrophages, which can ultimately help to alleviate certain aging-related diseases. METHODS: The effects of total saponins from RESULTS: TSPJs reduced the iron content in the macrophages and prompted M2 polarization, which affected the JNK signaling pathway ( CONCLUSION: TSPJs mediate the iron metabolism of macrophages via Fth to reduce aging-related inflammation of the adipose tissue.