August 1, 2025

Resource Analysis and Classification Utilization in Traditional Chinese Medicine Solid Residues

Key Points

Improperly managed TCM residue contributes to environmental pollution and resource loss, supporting the need for systematic classification.
The study identifies three categories of TCMR based on resource value, with diverse utilization routes such as nutraceuticals and biochar.
Analysis explores TCMR's potential, highlighting options like re-extraction for pharmaceuticals and composting for sustainable practices.
Effective management of TCMR could enhance ecological development and resource conservation in traditional medicine.

Abstract

Abstract The sustainable use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) resources is integral to China's ecological development strategy. As the TCM industry expands rapidly, the demand for natural medicinal materials has increased, leading to the generation of significant residue. Improperly managed waste contributes to environmental pollution and resource loss. However, a systematic approach for classifying and managing TCM residue (TCMR) is still lacking. This paper analyzes the composition of TCMR and then explores its potential for resource utilization. TCMR falls into three categories according to resource value. The first category, rich in highly active ingredients, focuses on re‐extraction, food additives, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The second group studies composting, substrates, feed, and feed additives. The third category enumerates the low‐activity TCMR resource utilization routes, which include fuel gas, anaerobic fermentation, bio‐oil, biochar, and biomass materials. This paper offers a theoretical foundation for the effective classification and application of TCMR.

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