Tiger bones and other derivatives in Chinese medicine


Tiger bone, rhinoceros horn, bear gall bladders and other animal products are used extensively in Chinese medicine. To better understand this practice, it is helpful to understand Chinese medicine, which is based on the principle of homeostasis.

One Hong Kong professor describes Chinese medicine as "an integrated body of empirical knowl edge and experience developed in a similar way to that of a person trying to detect the physical changes of a sealed black box and to devise means to restore it to a 'normal' state" (But et al. 1990). By observing a wide range of physical and biological changes in humans, using a system of mutually opposing but interdepen dent and interchanging points, a physician can determine the location, nature, severity, and, in many cases, the cause of an illness. Upon diagnosis, a combination of herbal materials is prescribed in an effort to counter the imbalance(s) and restore the body's equilibrium.

The use of of animal parts in Chinese medicine stems from the belief that substances found in animal products are similar to those found in our own bodies. Therefore, the potency of a substance found in an animal drug will be many times more potent than that of a plant compound (Dharmananda 1986).

According to Ben Cao Gang Mu (the Compendium of Materia Medica) the tiger is a strong and fierce animal; even after death it can remain upright due to its strong tendons (Li @ 1570). Therefore, the front shank is the most potent and sought after bone because the animal's energy is focussed there, but the skull and leg bones are also used medicinally. The Chinese Medical Encyclopedia says the best tigers are found in China's Canton Province [South China Tiger], followed by Vietnam and Thailand [Indochinese Tiger] (Anon. 1979). In contrast, in the Encyclopedia of Chinese Materia Medica (ZhongYao DaZiDian), the NE tiger (Siberian) is considered superior (Anon. 1981).

Chinese Materia Medica lists two main uses for tiger bone. It is considered excellent for ridding the body of infection and it is an effective pain reliever (Anon. 1981). Many of the physicians interviewed say tiger bone today is principally used to treat spasms and pain, including various types of rheumatism; and to strengthen the bones. It can also allegedly calm the nerves, increase intelligence, cure dysentery, a prolapsed anus caused by chronic diarrhea, a bulging anus, forgetfulness and dislodge bones stuck in the throat (Li 1570). Sleeping on a tiger skull prevents nightmares and hanging the skull on a door wards off evil (Anon. 1979).

In traditional Chinese medicine Tiger bone is consumed in powder form and taken with water, mixed with other herbs or made into soups, wines or pills. Prior to being used medicinally, raw bones must be "treated," either baked, boiled or stir-fried (Li @1570).