Functional Films in Traditional Chinese Medicine Packaging

Enhanced Preservation with Functional Films

Functional films have shown significant potential in extending the shelf life of perishable items, including traditional Chinese medicinal materials. For instance, a study on starch-based films loaded with thyme oil microemulsions or microcapsules demonstrated that these films could significantly increase the shelf life of chilled meat to 14 days, compared to 6 days for a control group and 10 days for polyethylene (PE) films. This suggests that functional films can be highly effective in preserving the freshness and quality of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs and preparations.

Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties

Functional films incorporating bioactive compounds can provide both antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, essential for protecting traditional Chinese medicinal materials from degradation. Films made from chitosan and whey protein, loaded with nanoencapsulated garlic essential oil, have shown promising preservative effects on refrigerated vacuum-packed sausages, extending their shelf life up to 50 days. This indicates that similar films could be used to protect traditional Chinese medicinal materials from microbial contamination and oxidation, maintaining their therapeutic properties.

Improved Mechanical and Barrier Properties

Functional films can also enhance the mechanical and barrier properties of packaging materials, making them more suitable for protecting traditional Chinese medicinal materials. For example, films made from zein/gelatin and polyethylene, loaded with oregano essential oil, demonstrated excellent moisture absorption (12.7–21%) and water barrier properties (water vapor transfer rate of 10.3–11.2 gm–2 d–1), as well as improved tensile strength (18.6–28.3 MPa). These properties are crucial for ensuring that traditional Chinese medicinal materials remain protected from environmental factors such as moisture and oxygen, which can degrade their quality.

Active Packaging for Traditional Chinese Medicine

Active packaging films, which incorporate bioactive compounds, have shown significant promise in preserving traditional Chinese medicinal materials. For example, chitosan-based films containing Chinese chive root extract exhibited improved antioxidant activities (DPPH and ABTS free radicals scavenging capacity increased from 6.95% to 47.05% and from 11.98% to 57.38%, respectively) and antimicrobial properties against various bacteria. These films can be used to create active packaging solutions for traditional Chinese medicinal materials, ensuring their longevity and efficacy.

Future Directions

The development of functional films for traditional Chinese medicine packaging is an area of active research. The potential for creating films that not only protect but also enhance the therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese medicinal materials is significant. For example, films that can release active compounds in a controlled manner could be used to maintain the freshness and potency of medicinal herbs over extended periods. Additionally, the integration of smart packaging technologies, such as films that change color to indicate spoilage, could further revolutionize the preservation and use of traditional Chinese medicinal materials.