Fig. 2

Understanding of traditional aspects of CHM processing (Paozhi) via advanced chemical and pharmacological evaluations. Paozi results in complex changes in chemical profiles of CHMs via structural transformation, reduced contents, increased solubility, alteration of existing form of constituents and influence by excipients. Inevitably, these chemical changes lead to alteration of efficacy and/or toxicity of CHMs. Paozi can adjust the nature (heat, warm, cold and cool) of a certain CHM to facilitate the symptomatic and accurate prescription by TCM practitioners and help equilibrate the balance between Yin and Yang in human body. As a traditional technique, the key issues in modernization of Paozi are the optimization of processing method and the standardization of decoction pieces. The processing of Aconitum root is illustrated as a representative