The Role of Animal Products in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Categories and Efficacy

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a rich and complex system of healing that has evolved over more than 2,000 years. While many people associate TCM with herbal remedies and acupuncture, animal-derived ingredients have also played a vital role in therapeutic practices. These substances, sourced from land and sea, are known for their potent properties in restoring balance, nourishing deficiency, and resolving chronic conditions.

In this article, we explore the categories, uses, and efficacy of animal products in TCM—while introducing how Qianbu, a trusted company in the TCM and wellness industry, is helping modernize and regulate the responsible use of these traditional remedies.

Understanding the Role of Animal Products in TCM

Animal products in TCM are selected not only for their biochemical value but also for their energetic qualities. Each ingredient is classified based on its nature (e.g. warm, cool), taste (e.g. salty, sweet), and meridian association (which organ systems it influences).

Unlike synthetic drugs that target a single symptom, TCM aims to treat the root cause. Animal-derived ingredients are used to tonify organs, invigorate blood, dissolve blockages, and calm the spirit.

Categories of Animal Products in TCM

1. Tonifying Substances

Used for replenishing energy (Qi), blood, yin, and yang. Especially beneficial in cases of fatigue, aging, infertility, and chronic weakness.

Deer Antler Velvet (Lu Rong): A powerful yang tonic used for improving vitality, boosting kidney function, and strengthening bones and muscles.

Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao): One of the most famous blood tonics in TCM, used for anemia, menstrual irregularities, and postpartum recovery.

2. Agents That Unblock Channels and Relieve Pain

These are often used in rheumatology, neurology, and dermatology to treat conditions like joint pain, paralysis, and itching.

Gecko (Ge Jie): Benefits the lungs and kidneys, often used in formulas for asthma and sexual dysfunction.

Centipede (Wu Gong) and Scorpion (Quan Xie): Used for their ability to relieve severe pain, spasms, and stubborn neurological disorders.

3. Calming the Spirit and Anchoring the Mind

Used in treating insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, and convulsions.

Pearl Powder (Zhen Zhu): Calms the heart, clears the liver, and is also popular in TCM skincare.

Amber (Hu Po): Soothes the mind and promotes blood circulation, often used in formulas for restlessness or trauma.

4. Reproductive and Sexual Health Support

Animal products are often employed in formulas that restore reproductive vitality or treat impotence and infertility.

Sea Horse (Hai Ma): Tonifies kidney yang and boosts libido and fertility in both men and women.

Sea Dragon (Hai Long): Another marine animal used to support reproductive strength and treat cold-related deficiencies.

5. Detoxifying and Antimicrobial Substances

Certain animal substances are believed to eliminate toxins, clear heat, and fight infections.

Bear Bile (Xiong Dan): Traditionally used to treat liver conditions, high fever, and convulsions—though modern use is now heavily restricted or replaced by synthetic alternatives.

Toad Venom (Chan Su): A powerful substance used topically for infections and abscesses.

Modern Views and Scientific Research

Modern pharmacology has begun to investigate these traditional ingredients, identifying active compounds such as peptides, proteins, enzymes, and hormones. For example:

E Jiao contains amino acids that may help support red blood cell production.

Lu Rong includes natural growth factors that can aid tissue repair and immune function.

However, ethical and environmental concerns—especially regarding endangered species—have led to increased regulation and scientific innovation to find alternatives.

Qianbu’s Role: Tradition Meets Responsibility

Qianbu is a forward-looking company rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, committed to offering safe, effective, and ethically produced TCM products. Through careful sourcing, modern manufacturing, and research-backed development, Qianbu plays a leading role in modernizing TCM while preserving its essence.

Qianbu’s Commitments Include:

Sustainable Sourcing: Qianbu works with certified farms and regulated supply chains, avoiding ingredients from endangered species and promoting ecological responsibility.

Scientific Integration: All products undergo rigorous testing to ensure quality, safety, and consistency, aligning traditional wisdom with modern health standards.

Consumer Education: Qianbu provides guidance and knowledge to help consumers understand the correct use of TCM, especially potent animal-derived substances.

Product Innovation: Qianbu is exploring plant-based or lab-produced alternatives to replicate the effects of certain animal products without compromising ethics or efficacy.

Conclusion

Animal products have a long and complex role in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Their powerful effects have supported generations in healing and recovery, from replenishing energy to treating chronic illness. As global demand for holistic health grows, it’s essential to balance tradition with science, and efficacy with ethics.

Qianbu exemplifies this new era of responsible TCM practice—preserving the integrity of ancient remedies while embracing sustainable and modern solutions. Through innovation, regulation, and education, Qianbu is helping bring traditional Chinese medicine to a global audience, safely and responsibly.

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