Sampling locations and processing methods shape fungi microbiome on the surface of edible and medicinal Arecae semen

Abstract

IntroductionArecae semen, which is derived from the dried ripe seed of Areca catechu L., has been commonly used as one of the major traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs). Three types of crude herbal preparations, namely, raw Arecae semen (AS), Arecae semen tostum (SAS), and Arecae semen carbonisata (FAS), are available for different clinical applications in TCMs. Although aflatoxin contamination in Arecae semen has been reported preliminarily, only a few studies have been conducted on fungal contamination.MethodsIn this study, the presence of fungi on the surface of three Arecae semen (AS, SAS, and FAS) that collected from four provinces were investigated using high-throughput sequencing and internal transcribed spacer 2.ResultsResults showed that the phyla Ascomycota (75.45%) and Basidiomycota (14.29%) and the genera Wallemia (7.56%), Botryosphaeria (6.91%), Davidiella (5.14%), and Symbiotaphrina (4.87%) were the dominant fungi, and they presented significant differences in four areas and three processed products (p < 0.05). The α-diversity and network complexity exhibited significant differences in the four sampling locations (p < 0.05), with higher in Yunnan (Chao 1, 213.45; Shannon, 4.61; average degree, 19.96) and Hainan (Chao 1, 198.27; Shannon, 4.21; average degree, 22.46) provinces. Significant differences were noted in the three processed samples; and SAS group had highest α-diversity (Chao 1, 167.80; Shannon, 4.54) and network complexity (average degree, 18.32).ConclusionsIn conclusion, the diversity and composition of microbiome on the surface of Arecae semen were shaped by sampling location and processing methods. This work provides details on the surface microbiome of Arecae semen samples and highlights the importance of roles of origin and processing methods in microbiomes, ensuring drug efficacy and food safety.

Safety and efficacy evaluation of Simo decoction and Arecae semen in herbal medicine practice

“…Currently, there are no definitive reports on the carcinogenic risk of Arecae Semen as part of the Simo Mixture [ 21 , 22 ]. Although some studies have linked Arecae Semen to carcinogenic effects, conclusive evidence supporting this claim remains insufficient [ 20 , 23 , 71 ]. Existing research and literature primarily focus on the consumption of Arecae Semen , especially its association with oral cancer.…”

“…In the field of traditional Chinese patent medicine (TCPM), Simo decoction (Simo decoction oral solution) is distinguished by its effectiveness in treating various symptoms, including vomiting, abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, and feeding intolerance in premature infants, as well as constipation and functional dyspepsia in older adults [ [16] , [17] , [18] , [19] ]. A key component of this decoction is Arecae semen , traditionally used for its properties in eliminating intestinal parasites, alleviating food stagnation, stimulating qi, promoting diuresis, and preventing malaria [ 20 ]. However, the growing public concern about Arecae semen arises particularly from its notable link to carcinogenic risks, highlighting the complexities and critical importance of analyzing TCM [ [21] , [22] , [23] ].…”