Traditional Chinese Medicines under scrutiny

[arthwollipot]

In this study, scientists assessed 15 samples of traditional Chinese medicines seized by Australian customs. They extracted DNA from the tablets, powders and herbal teas. Then they used a technique called 'second generation DNA sequencing' to identify the plant and animal species they contained.

Their study identified the presence of vulnerable and endangered species such as the Asiatic black bear and the saiga antelope. The trade of these species is illegal under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2012/04/13/3476030.htm

 

[crimresearch]

Yep. And what isn't poached could be adulterated.

http://jcp.sagepub.com/content/37/4/344.abstract

 

[pakeha]

@arthwallipot-
hat's good to see and I've shared that link on my FB page.

In any case, on the subject of TCM ingredients-
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-17216183

 

[Deetee]

And in other news, herbal remedies cause widespread kidney disease.

 

[epepke]

Yep. And what isn't poached could be adulterated.

http://jcp.sagepub.com/content/37/4/344.abstract

I wouldn't mind that so much, if I knew what they were adulterated with.

Back about 15 years, there was an herbal remedy imported from China that actually contained benzodiazepines. I'd go for that!