Patent Analysis and Technology Forecasting in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Case Study of Patent Applications in the United States
Authors: Zhang Wei, Li Na, Wang Fang, Chen Yu
This study investigates the landscape of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) patents in the United States, analyzing trends, key players, and technological focus areas. Using patent data from the USPTO, we identify a steady increase in TCM-related patent applications, with significant contributions from academic institutions and small enterprises. The analysis reveals that most patents focus on herbal extracts, formulations, and methods of treatment, with a growing emphasis on quality control and standardization. Our findings suggest that while the U.S. TCM patent landscape is still developing, it holds substantial potential for innovation and commercialization. We provide strategic recommendations for stakeholders to navigate the intellectual property terrain and foster further advancements in TCM.
