Tianjin University sets first global standard for herbal medicine
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Researchers at Tianjin University in China developed the world’s first ISO standard for single-herb Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula granules, working with Tasly Pharmaceutical Group and China Resources Sanjiu.
Professor Gao Wenyuan led the team, with Professor Li Xia as a key member, through years of international discussion and testing. They addressed a need for consistent quality control and production methods for TCM granules, a modern form of herbal medicine that simplifies preparation and storage.
Previously, a lack of standardized procedures limited the international availability of these medicines, particularly for herbs like Salvia miltiorrhiza, a plant increasingly sought after globally. The new ISO 21756:2026 standard establishes rules for every part of the production process, from sourcing ingredients to testing the final product. The standard introduces specific, measurable criteria for quality, including chemical profiles, ingredient levels, and safety thresholds. Tianjin University provided technical expertise throughout the standard’s creation, refining studies and designing testing methods.
Professor Gao explained that establishing these international standards will both protect trade and help more people around the world access TCM. The team intends to continue working with companies and standardization organizations to create additional standards for other herbal formulas.
