Understanding Medicinal and Edible Homologous Products: Definition, National Standard List, and Application Guide
“Drinking goji berry water for wellness in autumn and winter,” “Adding astragalus to soup for energy,” “Having sour jujube seed tea for insomnia…” These health habits integrated into daily diets all stem from the concept of “medicinal and edible homology.” With the advancement of the Healthy China strategy and the growing public awareness of wellness, products under this category have transitioned from traditional medicinal cuisine into ordinary households, becoming a core growth area in the Greater Health industry. However, many people have misconceptions about “medicinal and edible homologous products”—unclear about their scientific definition or unsure which ones are officially recognized by national authorities. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown: What defines these products? What is the official standard list published by the national health administration? And what are the key points for daily application?
Part 1: Core Explanation – What Are Medicinal and Edible Homologous Products?
The core of medicinal and edible homologous products refers to “substances that are both food and traditional Chinese medicinal (TCM) materials.” These substances combine the nutritional properties of food with the regulating effects of medicine, serving as an important vehicle for the TCM wisdom of “preventive treatment.” Simply put, they are natural substances that can be consumed daily like ordinary food for nutritional supplementation and have also been proven—both in traditional TCM theory and modern research—to possess certain medicinal value for regulating bodily functions.
1. Three Core Characteristics of Medicinal and Edible Homologous Products
Dual Attributes: They possess the core properties of both food and medicine. As food, they are safe, non-toxic, palatable, suitable for long-term moderate consumption, and provide basic nutrition. As “medicine,” they follow TCM theory, offering specific regulatory functions like boosting Qi, nourishing blood, dispelling dampness, or calming the mind, aiding in improving suboptimal health conditions.
Foundation in Traditional Use: They must have a long history of dietary use in China, with safety and efficacy verified through long-term practice. Their applications are documented in traditional TCM texts or folk practices, distinguishing them from modern synthetic or novel substances.
Official National Recognition: They must be reviewed, approved, and officially included in the “Catalogue of Substances That Are Both Food and Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials” by the national health administration (primarily the National Health Commission) in conjunction with relevant authorities. Only then are they considered legal and compliant products, with clear standards for production, sale, and consumption.
2. Distinguishing Medicinal and Edible Homologous Products from Ordinary Food and Drugs
It's common to confuse these products with ordinary food or drugs, but they differ significantly in core purpose, usage context, and safety requirements:
Vs. Ordinary Food: The primary role of ordinary food is to provide nutrition and sensory pleasure, lacking specific regulatory or therapeutic functions. Medicinal and edible homologous products, while nutritious, additionally offer TCM-based regulatory functions and are subject to stricter production standards and raw material requirements aligned with TCM specifications.
Vs. Drugs: The primary purpose of drugs is to treat diseases, with specific indications, dosages, and treatment courses. Some drugs have potential side effects and require medical supervision. Medicinal and edible homologous products do not treat diseases and cannot replace drugs. They are safer, with no strict course limits, and can be consumed moderately as part of daily diet.
3. The Development of Medicinal and Edible Homologous Products
The concept has a long history in China, with records in the Yellow Emperor’s Canon of Medicine emphasizing dietary regulation for health preservation. Modern standardized management began in the 21st century:
2002: The former Ministry of Health issued a notice defining the first list of 87 substances, laying the regulatory foundation.
Subsequent Years: The National Health Commission and the State Administration for Market Regulation have added multiple batches to the catalog based on industry development and scientific research.
As of 2025: The officially announced list includes 106 substances, forming a mature standardized system.
Continuous policy refinement has driven rapid industry growth. The market size in China now exceeds 100 billion yuan. Product forms have diversified from raw TCM materials to include functional foods, wellness teas, pre-made medicinal meals, and instant powder forms, widely applied in food, catering, and wellness sectors.
Part 2: The Official Standard List
As of 2025, four official batches of the catalog have been published, totaling 106 substances. The complete, officially recognized list is as follows:
1. The First Batch (2002) – 87 Substances – Laying the Foundation
Clove, Star Anise, Sword Bean, Fennel, Field Thistle, Chinese Yam, Hawthorn, Purslane, Black-tailed Snake, Dark Plum, Papaya, Hemp Seed, Bitter Orange Flower, Fragrant Solomonseal Rhizome, Licorice Root, Angelica Dahurica, Ginkgo Nut, Hyacinth Bean, Hyacinth Bean Flower, Longan Fruit, Cassia Seed, Lily Bulb, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Emblic Leafflower Fruit, Finger Citron, Almond (Sweet & Bitter), Sea-buckthorn, Oyster Shell, Foxnut, Sichuan Pepper, Red Bean, Donkey-hide Gelatin, Chicken Gizzard-skin, Malt, Kelp, Jujube (Chinese Date, Wild Jujube, Black Jujube), Monk Fruit, Chinese Dwarf Cherry Seed, Honeysuckle Flower, Chinese Olive, Houttuynia Cordata, Ginger (Fresh & Dried), Raisin Tree Seed, Goji Berry, Cape Jasmine Fruit, Villous Amomum Fruit, Boat-fruited Sterculia Seed, Poria, Citron, Haichow Elsholtzia Herb, Peach Kernel, Mulberry Leaf, Mulberry Fruit, Tangerine Peel, Platycodon Root, Sharpleaf Galangal Fruit, Lotus Leaf, Radish Seed, Lotus Seed, Lesser Galangal Rhizome, Lophatherum Herb, Fermented Soybean, Chrysanthemum Flower, Chicory, Yellow Mustard Seed, Siberian Solomon’s Seal Rhizome, Perilla Leaf, Perilla Seed, Kudzu Root, Black Sesame, Black Pepper, Pagoda Tree Flower-bud, Pagoda Tree Flower, Dandelion, Honey, Grand Torreya Seed, Wild Jujube Seed, Fresh Cogongrass Rhizome, Fresh Reed Rhizome, Pit Viper, Tangerine Peel, Peppermint, Coix Seed, Chinese Chive, Raspberry, Patchouli.
2. The Second Batch (2019) – 6 Substances – Expanding Application
Chinese Angelica, Galanga Resurrection Lily Rhizome, Saffron (Note: In spices and seasonings, also called “Tibetan Saffron”), Tsaoko Fruit, Turmeric, Long Pepper.
3. The Third Batch (2023) – 9 Substances – Focusing on Wellness Needs
Codonopsis Root, Cistanche Deserticola (from desert areas), Dendrobium officinale, American Ginseng, Astragalus Root, Lingzhi (Reishi) Mushroom, Asiatic Cornelian Cherry Fruit, Gastrodia Tuber, Eucommia Leaf.
4. The Fourth Batch (2024) – 4 Substances – Supplementing Traditional Categories
Rehmannia Root, Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber, Chinese Asparagus Root, Pummelo Peel.
Important Reminder: This is the official national standard list. TCM materials not included in this list should not be consumed daily as ordinary food, as this may pose safety risks.
Part 3: Practical Application Guide and Precautions
While generally safe and mild, these products should be used scientifically based on one’s constitution and needs. Key considerations are:
1. Follow “Syndrome Differentiation for Diet” – Match Your Constitution
Their effects are targeted. For example:
Qi Deficiency (fatigue, shortness of breath): Suitable for Astragalus, Codonopsis, Chinese Yam.
Yin Deficiency (dry mouth, night sweats): Suitable for Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber, Chinese Asparagus Root, Lily Bulb.
Excessive Dampness (heaviness, thick tongue coating): Suitable for Poria, Coix Seed, Lotus Leaf.
Using them blindly can backfire. For instance, those with a heat-prone constitution may experience excessive internal heat from overconsuming warming ingredients like cinnamon or dried ginger.
2. Control Dosage – Avoid Excessive Intake
Overconsumption can cause discomfort. Examples:
Excessive Wild Jujube Seed may cause drowsiness/dizziness.
Excessive Honeysuckle may harm spleen/stomach function.
Excessive Goji Berry may cause bloating or excessive internal heat.
Adhere to the principle of “moderation and long-term use,” following traditional habits or product instructions.
3. Special Populations – Exercise Caution and Consult Professionals
Pregnant/Breastfeeding Women: Some products (e.g., Chinese Angelica, Peach Kernel) have blood-activating properties and may affect fetus/infant. Use strictly under medical guidance.
Infants/Young Children: Their immature digestive systems cannot handle complex products. If used (e.g., Chinese Yam, Lotus Seed), process into easily digestible forms and control dosage carefully.
Chronic Disease Patients: Diabetics should avoid high-sugar products like honey or monk fruit. Hypertensive/hyperlipidemic patients should control intake of warming spices like cinnamon/Sichuan pepper. Consult a doctor.
Those with Allergies: Allergies to certain categories (e.g., nuts, seafood-based products) are possible. Try a small amount first to check for reactions.
4. Identify Authenticity – Purchase from Reputable Sources
To avoid counterfeit or low-quality products (e.g., sulfur-fumigated Chinese yam), buy from reputable pharmacies, supermarkets, or authorized online platforms. Check for proper labeling, ingredient list, production date, and origin.
5. They Are Not a Substitute for Medicine – Follow Medical Advice for Treatment
Their core role is “wellness regulation,” not “disease treatment.” For diagnosed conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, arthritis), do not rely on these products instead of prescribed medication. Seek timely medical care and follow professional treatment plans. These products can serve as adjunctive support.
Part 4: Industry Outlook – Development Trends
With a market size exceeding 100 billion yuan and a full industry chain valued over 2 trillion yuan, the sector shows strong momentum. Driven by supportive policies, technological advancement, and consumption upgrade, future trends include:
Diversified Product Forms: Beyond traditional formats, expect more convenient options like functional snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and oral liquids.
Increased Technological Content: Advanced technologies (e.g., supercritical fluid extraction, microbial fermentation) will improve active ingredient yield and high-value product development.
Cross-Industry Integration: Deeper integration with the catering, culture & tourism, and health & wellness industries will create new models like “Medicinal Cuisine Restaurants” or “Wellness Tourism,” expanding industry boundaries.
Conclusion: Integrate Wellness into Daily Life Scientifically
Medicinal and edible homologous products represent a perfect synergy between traditional TCM wisdom and modern health needs, integrating wellness into the daily diet and making “preventive treatment” practical. Understanding their scientific definition, knowing the official list, and using them appropriately according to your constitution are key to unlocking their true value.
Remember, the core of wellness is “moderation and targeting the right condition,” not blindly following trends. By choosing officially recognized products and following scientific methods, you can enjoy food while nurturing your health. Feel free to share this guide with friends interested in this topic to embark on a journey of scientific wellness together.
This article is curated from external sources and published by CHN Healthcare Network. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the platform’s position. For copyright concerns regarding content or images, please contact us at info@healthcarechn.com for prompt resolution.