Multiple physiological systems via multi-component herbal synergy according to TCM theory

This entry does not correspond to a defined molecular target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter. Instead, it refers to the concept within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that multi-component herbal formulations exert therapeutic effects by acting in concert on multiple physiological systems, not through any single, well-defined molecular target. TCM formulas are intentionally designed to target broad physiological functions and address systemic imbalances, relying on the holistic synergy between herbs[1][2][5][6]. The scientific study of such synergy (herb–herb interaction or network pharmacology) has revealed that herbs and their active ingredients may interact with numerous molecular targets across various pathways, but these interactions are system-wide and not mapped to any specific, singular molecular entity[1][2][3]. Modern pharmacology seeks to unravel these complex networks, but the concept itself is too broad and diffuse to be considered a legitimate singular therapeutic target by current biomedical classification systems.

Other names

TCM multi-system synergyTCM network pharmacologymultisystem effects of TCM formulations