International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 315-323 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 316 2 Botanical Characteristics and Traditional Uses 2.1 Botanical description Rehmannia glutinosa, commonly known as Chinese foxglove, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is characterized by its tuberous roots, which are the primary part used in traditional medicine. The plant has broad leaves and purple flowers, and it is typically found in China, Korea, and Japan (Zhang et al., 2008). The root, known as Radix Rehmanniae, can be used fresh or dried, and it is known for its sticky texture and sweet taste. 2.2 Historical and traditional uses in chinese medicine Historically, Rehmannia glutinosa has been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. It is used to nourish Yin, replenish the blood, and invigorate the kidneys. Traditional texts describe its use in treating a variety of conditions such as anemia, dizziness, and menstrual disorders. The herb is often included in formulas for enhancing vitality and longevity (Tang and Eisenbrand, 1992). In traditional Chinese medicine, Rehmannia glutinosa is often used in combination with other herbs to enhance its therapeutic effects. For example, it is a key ingredient in the famous formula Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, which is used to treat symptoms of kidney Yin deficiency such as tinnitus, night sweats, and dry mouth (Hsu et al., 2014). 2.3 Preparation and forms used in traditional medicine Rehmannia glutinosa is prepared in various forms in TCM. The fresh root, known as Xian Di Huang, is often used to clear heat and cool the blood. The dried root, called Sheng Di Huang, is typically used for its nourishing and cooling properties. The processed root, known as Shu Di Huang, is steamed with rice wine, which enhances its tonic properties and makes it more suitable for nourishing the blood and kidneys (Yu et al., 2006). Processing Rehmannia glutinosa involves nine cycles of steaming and drying, which significantly alters its chemical composition. This process increases the concentration of certain beneficial compounds, making the herb more effective for long-term tonic use (Chang et al., 2011).Rehmannia glutinosa is a versatile herb with a rich history in TCM, used in various forms to treat a wide range of ailments. Its preparation methods are critical to its effectiveness, making it a cornerstone of traditional herbal medicine. 3 Phytochemistry of Rehmannia glutinosa 3.1 Key bioactive compounds Rehmannia glutinosa, a widely utilized herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Key compounds identified in Rehmannia glutinosa include iridoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, saccharides, and amino acids. Notable iridoids such as catalpol and aucubin have been extensively studied for their pharmacological properties. Phenylethanoid glycosides like acteoside and echinacoside are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects (Zhang et al., 2008). Other important compounds include rehmaionoside A, rehmannioside D, and various triterpenoids and flavonoids which have been linked to the herb's medicinal properties (Nguyen et al., 2020). 3.2 Extraction and identification techniques The extraction and identification of bioactive compounds from Rehmannia glutinosa involve sophisticated techniques to ensure the purity and efficacy of the extracts. Common methods include solvent extraction, chromatography (such as HPLC and GC-MS), and spectrometry (including NMR and MS). These techniques allow for the isolation and structural elucidation of individual compounds. For example, high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) has been used to profile metabolites and identify key phytotoxic metabolites in the herb (Zhang et al., 2019). Additionally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has been employed to determine the structures of isolated compounds from the aerial parts of the plant (Nguyen et al., 2020). 3.3 Comparative analysis of raw and processedRehmannia The processing of Rehmannia glutinosa significantly alters its chemical composition and enhances its therapeutic properties. Traditional processing methods involve steaming and drying the roots, which can convert certain
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