A zoo in China has come under scrutiny after it was discovered selling bottled "medicated tiger urine" from Siberian tigers for 50 yuan (approximately RM30) per bottle. Each bottle reportedly contains around 250 grams of tiger urine, with claims that it has medicinal benefits.
The unusual product gained public attention when a visitor snapped a photo of the bottled urine and shared it on social media. The image revealed that the zoo was actively selling tiger urine, alleging that it could help treat rheumatic diseases and chronic inflammation.
According to Sinar Harian, the label on the bottle states that the urine has healing properties, particularly for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, and muscle pain. It even suggests that people can drink it but advises consumers to stop usage if they experience allergic reactions.
A staff member at the zoo told The Paper that the product is directly collected from containers used for the tiger's urine disposal. However, it remains unclear whether any sterilization process is undertaken before selling the urine to customers.
Despite skepticism surrounding the product, the zoo staff revealed that there is a demand for it, with up to two bottles being sold each day.
However, medical professionals are raising serious concerns about the products legitimacy. A pharmacist from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital in Hubei clarified that tiger urine is not recognized in traditional medicine and has no scientifically proven health benefits.
He strongly advised the public to seek proper medical treatments rather than relying on unverified remedies, warning that consuming such products could lead to unforeseen health risks.
Additionally, another traditional Chinese medicine practitioner questioned whether the zoo even has the legal right to market tiger urine as a medicinal product, as all drugs must be approved by government regulators before being sold.
Despite widespread criticism, the zoo staff insist they have the necessary business license to sell the bottled tiger urine.
Source: Sinar Harian