Chinese zoo sparks outrage by selling tiger urine as ‘miracle cure’ for muscle pain and arthritis

Beijing (The Uttam Hindu): A zoo in China has come under fire for marketing Siberian tiger urine as a remedy for ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis, muscle pain and sprains. The Yaan Bifengxia Wildlife Zoo, located in Sichuan province, promotes the use of tiger urine mixed with white wine for its alleged “therapeutic effects.” However, the practice has drawn criticism from experts and conservationists.

The controversy erupted after a visitor highlighted the issue on social media, revealing that the zoo sells 250-gram bottles of tiger urine for 50 yuan (approximately ₹600 or $7). According to the zoo, the product can be applied to affected areas using ginger slices or consumed orally, though users are advised to stop consumption in case of allergic reactions.

Zoo officials explained that the urine is collected from basins where the tigers urinate but concerns persist about whether the product is disinfected or treated before sale. Experts have denounced the practice, emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence to support tiger urine as a medicine. A pharmacist from the Hubei Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital criticized the zoo for misrepresenting traditional Chinese medicine and highlighted the potential harm to tiger conservation efforts. Another practitioner questioned the zoo’s credentials for selling such products. Despite the backlash, the zoo defended its actions, stating that it possesses a valid business license.