[Herbal textual research on Rubi Fructus]

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Pharmacognosy
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Background:

• Rubi Fructus, a TCM herb, is officially sourced from Rubus chingii per the 2015 Chinese Pharmacopoeia.
• Ancient herbal literature presents discrepancies regarding the plant origin of Rubi Fructus.
• Understanding historical sources is crucial for accurate utilization and development of Rubi Fructus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct textual research on the origin, production areas, quality, processing, and properties of Rubi Fructus.
• To clarify the historical plant sources of Rubi Fructus based on ancient texts and botanical evidence.
• To compare ancient and modern understanding of Rubi Fructus characteristics and efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Textual analysis of ancient herbal literature.
• Comparative study of historical records and plant morphology.
• Investigation of traditional production areas and quality indicators.

Main Results:

• Ancient texts indicate a complex variety of Rubi Fructus, including species like R. coreanus, R. hirsutus, R. corchorifolius, and R. foliolosus.
• Rubus chingii, the modern source, was documented as early as the Ming Dynasty, contrary to some scholarly beliefs.
• Historical production areas differed from current ones, and specific harvest times (May) and quality attributes (sour taste, firm texture) were noted as optimal.

Conclusions:

• The botanical origin of Rubi Fructus has historically been more diverse than currently recognized.
• Textual research clarifies the historical documentation of Rubus chingii and its geographical distribution.
• Findings provide a foundation for the accurate application and future research of Rubi Fructus in traditional and modern contexts.