Medicinal and edible TCMs: Extraction and Isolation, Structural Elucidation, Pharmacological Evaluation, Structural Modification, and Quality Control

In the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the ancient practice of utilizing food items with medicinal properties—a principle known as "medicine and food homology" (yao shi tong yuan)—has gained renewed interest through modern scientific inquiry. This philosophy, integrated into the fabric of Chinese culture, posits that certain foods can perform therapeutic functions akin to medicinal herbs due to their inherent natural properties. Over recent years, there has been a surge in scientific efforts to decode the chemical compositions of these foods, unrevealing their latent health benefits, and exploring possibilities for their practical application enhanced by structural modifications. This special issue targets the aggregation of current findings on the chemical principles behind medicinal and edible Traditional Chinese Medicines, aiming to deepen the comprehensive understanding of their therapeutic traits and spearhead future innovation initiatives.

This Research Topic aims to scrutinize the myriad aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicines that align with food, centering on their potential to transcend their culinary base and serve therapeutic purposes. It seeks to address pivotal questions concerning optimal extraction methods, structural characteristics vital for their efficacy, and pharmacological benefits that can be leveraged to treat or prevent health conditions. Additionally, the ambition extends to fostering advancements in their structural modification to enhance potency and versatility in medical applications, ensuring their place in the contemporary pharmaceutical landscape.

To gather further insights within this vibrant field of study, we welcome articles focusing on, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Extraction and Separation Techniques: Highlighting the latest in solvent technologies and mechanical extraction enhancements, such as ultrasound and supercritical fluid methods.
• Structural Identification and Elucidation: Advances in spectroscopy and computational methods aiding in the precise determination of complex molecular structures.
• Pharmacological Evaluation: In-depth analysis of the bioactive potential across various biological systems, employing both traditional and novel pharmacological assessment techniques.
• Structural Modification and Derivative Synthesis: Cutting-edge strategies in chemical and biotransformation methodologies aimed at improving clinical efficacy and safety profiles.
• Quality Control and Standardization: Progress in setting benchmarks for product quality, crucial for integration into formal healthcare settings.