[Preliminary processing, processing and usage of Dendrobii Caulis in history].

Area of Science:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
• Pharmacognosy
• Ethnobotany

Context:

• Dendrobii Caulis presents processing challenges due to its dense cuticle and texture.
• Historical texts detail various preparation methods to optimize its medicinal properties.
• Understanding ancient processing is vital for preserving the efficacy of this herb.

Purpose:

• To investigate and synthesize historical methods for processing Dendrobii Caulis.
• To differentiate between ancient efficacy-focused processing and modern appearance-focused methods.

Summary:

• Historical clinical use of Dendrobii Caulis involved removing roots/rhizomes and employing techniques like rinsing, soaking, or mixing with rice pulp to aid drying.
• Pulverization via slicing, rasping, hitting, or pestling was essential for medicinal effects.
• Common heat processing included stir-baking, stir-frying, steaming (often with liquor), decocting, and stewing, with steaming and liquor pretreatment being most frequent.
• Modern methods like sulfur fumigation, while improving appearance, deviate from ancient efficacy-oriented practices.

Impact:

• Highlights the importance of traditional processing techniques for Dendrobii Caulis efficacy.
• Warns against modern processing methods that prioritize appearance over medicinal effectiveness.
• Provides a historical perspective on Dendrobii Caulis preparation for researchers and practitioners.