China zoo faces backlash for selling tiger urine as medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis, muscle pain
PTC Web Desk: A zoo in China has sparked controversy for promoting Siberian tiger urine as a remedy for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, and muscle pain. The Yaan Bifengxia Wildlife Zoo in Sichuan province claims that mixing tiger urine with white wine has “therapeutic effects,” but experts and conservationists are raising concerns about the practice.
The issue gained attention when a visitor shared details on social media, stating that the zoo sells 250 g bottles of tiger urine for 50 yuan (approximately Rs 600 or $7). The instructions suggest mixing the urine with white wine and applying it to the affected area using ginger slices. The zoo also claims it can be consumed orally but advises discontinuation if allergic reactions occur.
Zoo staff explained that tiger urine is collected from basins where the animals relieve themselves. However, questions remain about whether the urine is disinfected or processed before being sold.
Experts have condemned the practice, stating that there is no scientific evidence supporting tiger urine as a medicine. A pharmacist from the Hubei Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital criticised the zoo for distorting traditional Chinese medicine and warned of its negative impact on tiger conservation. Another practitioner questioned the zoo’s qualification to sell such products. The zoo defended itself, claiming it has a valid business license.
- With inputs from agencies