Controversy Erupts as Chinese Zoo Sells Tiger Urine as 'Medicinal' Treatment

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The Yaan Bifengxia Wildlife Zoo in Sichuan province, China, has sparked outrage after announcing the sale of "medicinal tiger urine" from Siberian tigers, purportedly as a cure for rheumatism and other ailments. Priced at 50 yuan per 250g bottle, the zoo claims the urine can alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, and muscle pain. The recommended usage involves mixing the urine with white wine and applying it to the skin or consuming it, with warnings to discontinue use if allergic reactions occur.

Concerns have been raised regarding the collection and safety of the urine, as a staff member revealed it is gathered directly after the tiger urinates, with no clarity on whether it is subjected to any disinfection processes before sale. Reports indicate modest sales, with the zoo managing to sell only about two bottles daily.

A local pharmacist has publicly denounced the practice, arguing that there is no scientific evidence supporting the health claims associated with tiger urine, suggesting that such promotion misrepresents traditional Chinese medicine and poses risks to tiger conservation. Moreover, traditional medicine practitioners have questioned the zoo's authority to sell any medicinal products, highlighting that all medicines must comply with strict government regulations.

Despite the backlash, zoo staff assert they hold a valid business license for selling tiger urine, although doubts remain concerning the legitimacy of this license for medicinal products. The unusual practice has drawn mixed reactions from visitors, with many expressing skepticism over its purported benefits.

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