Abstract: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a profound history as a valuable cultural heritage of the Chinese nation and is widely utilized in daily life. However, most TCM formulations derived from natural sources contain complex compositions, and users often overlook the intricate interactions between medicinal components and critical usage details. Such oversight may result in reduced efficacy or delayed treatment at best, or potentially lead to poisoning and life-threatening consequences at worst. This study addresses these concerns through a tiered science communication approach, employing commonly used TCM materials including Chebula fruit, Coptidis Rhizoma, and black wolfberry in engaging experimental demonstrations. The experiments illustrate precipitation reactions between tannic acid-containing drugs (e.g., Chebula) and Fe³⁺, proteins, or ibuprofen-class medications, as well as alkaloid-containing drugs (e.g., Coptidis Rhizoma). Additionally, we demonstrate color-changing reactions of anthocyanin-containing drugs (e.g., black wolfberry) under varying pH conditions. These phenomena not only affect drug efficacy by altering active components but may also cause adverse effects. Through intuitive experimental observations, this work aims to enhance public understanding of TCM, promote its modern scientific interpretation, disseminate knowledge about herbal compatibility, dietary contraindications, and consequences of improper use, thereby improving medication safety awareness.

Key words: Traditional Chinese medicine, Medical science popularization, Tannic acid, Anthocyanins, Chebula fruit