Chinese medicine gets a dose of modernity

By Nina Mehra

HONG KONG (Reuters Life!) - Traditional Chinese medicine, the ancient art of healing using natural ingredients that are often boiled or powdered, is getting a modern dose.

Thousands of plants, fungi and animals -- some endangered and controversial -- are used to make traditional Chinese remedies.

But some practitioners in Hong Kong are trying a new approach, transforming the plants into soluble granules and tablets, and attracting younger patients with the convenience.

"What we are doing now is we are making every single herb into soluble granules, just like instant coffee," said Abraham Chan, President of the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association in Hong Kong.

"Now after you have got the prescription, just go to the dispensary, the pharmacist there will mix up the granules and you will go home having one little sachet. It saves a lot of time."

Traditional Chinese medicine is increasingly seen as an alternative to, or a complement for, pharmaceuticals.

It is believed to have less side effects than western medicine, another reason for its growing popularity among Westernized professionals and health-conscious youth.

"Kids don't like Chinese medicine because it tastes bitter, so the pills are more convenient," said 22-year-old Katie Yeung.