Application of Quantum Dots in Chinese Herbal Medicines: Advances in Detection, Pollutant Degradation, and Pharmacological Enhancement.

Quantum dots (QDs) are a class of nanomaterials with unique fluorescent properties that have gained significant attention in the research of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs). Due to their exceptional optical characteristics, stability, biocompatibility, and other advantages, QDs are increasingly utilized in CHM studies. This review explores the diverse applications of QDs, including their use in detecting active ingredients and common exogenous pollutants in CHMs, as well as in assessing the degradation of such pollutants in both CHMs and their growing environments. Furthermore, the paper discusses the potential of QDs synthesized from CHMs as tools for analyzing other substances and modulating their pharmacological effects. The review also highlights the preparation methods, detection principles, and specific research strategies related to QDs. Integrating QDs into CHM research is poised to drive the modernization and internationalization of the CHM industry.