IntroductionGastrodia elata is a prized traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of use, and its wild resources have progressively declined as its value has become increasingly apparent. Given the high dependence of G. elata’s growth on climate and the severe challenges posed by global warming, it is crucial to explore the historical shifts and future trends of its production areas.MethodsThis study systematically combed through ancient Chinese herbal and local chronicles, comprehensively documenting the geographical distribution of Gastrodia elata, a traditional precious medicinal herb in China, from the Eastern Han Dynasty to the Ming and Qing Dynasties (A.D. 25 - 1912). Based on contemporary geographical distribution data of Gastrodia elata, the MaxEnt model was used to simulate its suitable distribution areas in the present and future (2081–2100 AD).ResultsThe study reveals that climate change and human activities significantly affect the distribution patterns of Gastrodia elata production areas. The expansion and transformation of Gastrodia elata production areas across different historical periods are closely related to climate fluctuations and social development. During the Eastern Han to Sui - Tang periods, it was mainly produced in the Yellow River Basin of China; during the Song, Jin, and Yuan dynasties, it expanded to the Huang - Huai Basin; during the Little Ice Age (LIA) of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it continued to migrate southward into the Yangtze River Basin; and in recent years, there has been a trend of a decrease in coastal areas, which is consistent with the climate changes during the Little Ice Age and the current global warming trend.DiscussionThis study’s discussion on the changes in Gastrodia elata distribution areas and high - quality production zones covers three periods: ancient, modern, and future. The findings provide insights into how to adjust Gastrodia elata’s wild cultivation areas in response to climate change and further offer evidence for exploring the impact of climate change on the growth of authentic Chinese medicinal herbs.