Scientists in Taiwan are researching the properties of Chinese herbs in order to make new products:

""We are researching the medicinal properties of Chinese herbs and looking for ways to make them available commercially. Of course, we have to go through several clinical trials before we could market those items," said Li, one of the exhibitors at BioTaiwan 2006.

"The future however looks bright for Taiwan's agricultural biotech specialists. Within the next few years, you will likely be seeing many of these products in the market."

One of the potentially lucrative research projects being bankrolled by the Council of Agriculture involves "dang-gui." According to Li, this herb - a traditional "home remedy" - has been extensively used to regulate menses, reduce swelling, and treat skin disorders. The plant has leaves that are similar to coriander and has fleshy roots. Mature plants even produce clusters of beautiful white flowers.

"We got our first plant samples from China and we planted them in a nursery in Hualien. We are now trying to grow them in other parts of the county," said Li, adding that the "dang-gui" study was launched four years ago.

"Currently, we are conducting trials to prove that 'dang-gui' has properties that can cure certain diseases."

Another herb, salvia miltiorrhiza - often described as Chinese sage or red sage root, is another potential gold mine. The plant, according to Li, possesses properties that can cure coronary diseases.

"The whole plant - from its roots to its leaves - is extremely useful," he said, adding that each part possesses different medicinal components."