Aflatoxin contamination and detoxification in traditional Chinese medicines

Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds, primarily Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These mycotoxins can contaminate various agricultural products, including grains, nuts, and seeds, posing serious health risks. Similarly, a significant portion of Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) is either cultivated through artificial means or harvested from natural environments, making it susceptible to contamination as well. By addressing these critical aspects, the review aims to enhance the safety and quality of TCMs. Despite extensive research on aflatoxins in food crops, systematic reviews focusing on their contamination in TCMs remain limited. This review aims to bridge this gap by synthesizing current knowledge on storage conditions and detoxification strategies for TCMs vulnerable to aflatoxin contamination.