[Evolution and research progress of traditional Chinese medicine processing by roasting]

Area of Science:

• Herbal Medicine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine Processing
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Roasting is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) processing technique with a long history, extensively documented in ancient texts.
• Modern research on TCM roasting methods has declined, despite its historical significance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and summarize the historical evolution and development of TCM roasting methods.
• To analyze the inclusion of roasted TCM varieties in various pharmacopoeias and specifications.
• To provide a literature basis for optimizing roasting processes, quality standards, and clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Collected 119 TCM roasting methods from 123 ancient herbological works.
• Reviewed historical evolution and development of TCM roasting techniques.
• Sorted roasted varieties included in Chinese Pharmacopoeia and national/provincial specifications.

Main Results:

• Documented 119 distinct TCM roasting methods from historical records.
• Traced the historical progression and changes in TCM roasting techniques.
• Identified the integration of roasted TCM into official standards and pharmacopoeias.

Conclusions:

• The historical review provides a foundation for modernizing TCM roasting processes.
• Understanding the evolution of roasting technology aids in establishing quality standards for roasted decoction pieces.
• This research supports the optimization of roasting parameters and rational clinical use of roasted TCM.