International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 369-379 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 372 theoretical points. TCM's holistic approach, which views the body as an interconnected system, aligns well with the emerging network pharmacology paradigm in modern science. This paradigm emphasizes the complex interactions within biological systems, which can be mapped and understood through a network perspective (Li, 2016; Wang et al., 2021). TCM's concept of using food and herbs to achieve balance and harmony within the body can be seen as a precursor to modern nutritional science, which also seeks to understand how various nutrients interact to affect overall health (Zhao et al., 2020). Figure 1 LNS supplementation versus placebo/no intervention (efficacy studies) on the risk of anemia (hemoglobin concentration<110 g/L) (Adopted from Tam et al., 2020) Moreover, TCM's unique theories, such as the idea that the spleen and stomach are the "root" of post-heaven and the homology of medicine and food, provide a rich theoretical framework that can be integrated with modern nutritional principles. This integration can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of how diet and nutrition can be used to prevent and treat diseases, thereby enhancing the scope and efficacy of both TCM and modern nutrition (Chan et al., 2010; Zhao et al., 2020). 4.2 Modes of integration One mode of integration is through the use of network pharmacology, which combines computational, experimental, and clinical approaches to understand the complex interactions between TCM herbs and modern drugs. This method allows for the identification of synergistic effects and potential herb-drug interactions, thereby providing a more holistic approach to treatment (Figure 2)(Wang et al., 2021). For instance, the network target strategy in TCM can illustrate the complex interactions among biological systems, drugs, and diseases, offering a systematic level of precision that complements modern medical practices (Li, 2016). Figure 2 Combination of network pharmacology and clinical investigation (Adopted from Wang et al., 2021) Another mode of integration is through educational reforms that combine traditional apprenticeship models with modern educational techniques. This hybrid approach ensures that the core principles of TCM are preserved while
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