Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 137-150 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 138 numerous TCM formulations and its high market value, particularly those sourced from Zhejiang province, which are considered superior (Hu et al., 2019). This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the medicinal value of Atractylodes macrocephala (Bai Zhu), bridging the knowledge gap between its traditional use and modern scientific validation. The research will delve into the pharmacological properties of Bai Zhu, revealing its bioactive components and their potential mechanisms of action. Emphasizing Bai Zhu as a key ingredient transitioning from traditional herbal medicine to modern health products, the study highlights its significant application potential in contemporary medical fields. The findings of this study will provide scientific evidence for the prevention and treatment of related diseases, promoting the application and development of Bai Zhu in the modern health industry. 2 Botanical Characteristics 2.1 Plant description Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., commonly known as Baizhu in China, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. The plant is characterized by its thick, cylindrical rhizomes, which are the primary part used in traditional medicine. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have a serrated margin. The flowers are small, white to pale yellow, and are arranged in dense, terminal clusters. The plant typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm and has a robust root system that supports its medicinal properties (Zhu et al., 2018; Liu et al., 2022). The flowering season generally occurs from August to October (Cai et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2020). 2.2 Geographic distribution Atractylodes macrocephala is native to East Asia, predominantly found in China, Korea, and Japan. In China, it is primarily cultivated in the Zhejiang, Anhui, Hunan, and Sichuan provinces. The plant thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and prefers mountainous or hilly terrains with sufficient sunlight and moderate climatic conditions. The natural distribution and cultivation practices have been influenced by the plant's adaptation to different ecological zones within these regions (Zhu et al., 2018; Li and Yang, 2020). 2.3 Cultivation and harvesting practices The cultivation of Atractylodes macrocephala involves selecting fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The soil must be rich in organic matter and well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the rhizomes. The plant is typically propagated through rhizome cuttings, which are planted in the spring. Optimal growth conditions include a temperate climate with moderate rainfall and temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 25 °C. The plants are spaced about 30 cm apart to allow for adequate growth and development of the rhizomes. The fields require regular weeding, and the plants are often grown in a rotation system to maintain soil fertility and prevent disease buildup. Harvesting usually occurs in the autumn when the rhizomes have reached full maturity. The rhizomes are carefully dug out, cleaned, and dried in the sun or using low-temperature drying methods to preserve their medicinal properties. Proper post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain the quality and efficacy of the rhizomes, which are then processed into various forms such as powders, decoctions, and extracts for use in traditional and modern health products (Zhu et al., 2018; Liu et al., 2022; Qian et al., 2022). 3 Phytochemical Constituents 3.1 Major active compounds Atractylodes macrocephala, commonly known as Baizhu, contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties. The major active compounds isolated from A. macrocephala include sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, polyacetylenes, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, steroids, benzoquinones, and polysaccharides (Zhu et al., 2018). Among these, sesquiterpenoids such as atractylone, atractylenolide I, II, and III are the most notable, known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities (Gu et al., 2019; Jin et al., 2021). Polysaccharides from the rhizomes have shown significant immunomodulatory, gastroprotective, and anti-tumor effects (Liu et al., 2022). These compounds have been
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