Traditional Asian medicine (TAM)—a system of ancient medical practice including traditional Chinese medicine, Kampo, traditional Korean medicine, and Ayurveda—is widely used in Asian countries and is gaining popularity in western countries. TAM classic herbal formula, one of the important therapeutic modalities of TAM, has both unique theories and rich experience in the past 2000 years. From the past to the present, it has made countless contribution to well-being and public illness (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, etc.).

However, quite a number of classic herbal formulas are still recognized as a “mystery” to the science world. Currently, more and more evidences showing the efficacy from clinic provide us further understanding of the biological functions and potential mechanisms of TAM formula, for example, maxingshigan-yinqiaosan for H1N1 influenza virus. Additionally, due to the limitations of ‘more investments, less drugs’ challenge in drug discovery, and development, scientists have turned their attention to the natural herbal medicines. It is a current trend that TAM formula has provided new promising drugs and candidates recently. Accordingly, we hope that more evidence-based approaches on studying TAM classic herbal formula will be provided to lifting the mysterious veil.

Therefore, we encourage investigators to contribute original research articles as well as comprehensive review articles on TAM classic herbal formula. We are particularly interested in active ingredients extracted from TAM classic herbal formula with evidence-based practice through scientific experiments to assess their roles.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Randomized clinical trials about TAM classic herbal formula
• Systematic review and/or meta-analysis about TAM classic herbal formula
• In vivo or in vitro study to explore the mechanism of TAM classic herbal formula
• Perspective or commentary article of TAM classic herbal formula