"Scientific Chinese medicinals" actually have nothing to do with "science." It is merely a process of boiling Chinese medicinal materials, using starch to extract the medicinal juice, drying it, and then grinding it into a powder for convenience of use. At best, it can only be called "concentrated Chinese medicinals." However, even this "convenience" represents a significant breakthrough in Chinese medicinal dosage forms, as it eliminates the hassle of decoction and allows for longer storage.

The biggest issue with "concentrated Chinese medicinals" is the lack of labeling for the concentration of active ingredients, and the concentration of active ingredients varies between different manufacturers. For example, 1gm of concentrated powder from one manufacturer might be effective, while 2gm from another might be required for the same effect. This makes it difficult for TCM physicians to accurately prescribe doses, often relying on experience instead.

For "concentrated Chinese medicinals" to truly become "scientific," the most basic requirement is to disclose the concentration data of active ingredients. Only then can it be called "scientific Chinese medicinals." However, despite decades of development in Taiwan's Chinese medicinal industry, this has not been achieved. If accomplished, it would undoubtedly elevate the standards of Traditional Chinese medicine and further benefit the public.

There is another major issue lurking in the market for concentrated Chinese medicinal powders: some products are simply dried and ground raw medicinal materials, falsely sold as concentrated Chinese medicinals. Firstly, such powders are not concentrated, raising concerns about their efficacy. Secondly, since these powders are not decocted, they may contain mold, bacteria, residual pesticides, and heavy metals from the raw materials, all of which are ingested. Click here for a simple way to distinguish them.