Donkey-hide gelatin

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Ejiao

Donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao in Chinese, 阿胶) is a traditional Chinese medicine made from the hide of donkeys by boiling it to a gelatinous form and then drying it. It has been used in China for thousands of years, dating back to the Han dynasty. Donkey-hide gelatin is highly valued for its purported health benefits, including enriching blood, stopping bleeding, and nourishing the yin. It is often used in the treatment of conditions such as anemia, insomnia, and dry coughs. Despite its popularity, the production of donkey-hide gelatin has raised ethical concerns due to the large number of donkeys required and the impact on donkey populations worldwide.

History

Donkey-hide gelatin has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with its use being documented in ancient texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing, one of the earliest pharmacopeias in China. Its popularity has fluctuated over the centuries, but it has remained a staple in TCM pharmacies and is still widely used today.

Production

The production of donkey-hide gelatin involves several steps. First, the hide of slaughtered donkeys is cleaned and soaked in water to soften it. The hide is then boiled in water for a long time until it forms a thick, sticky substance. This substance is poured into molds and allowed to cool and solidify, forming blocks of gelatin. These blocks are then sliced or powdered for medicinal use. The process is labor-intensive and requires a significant number of donkeys to produce a small amount of gelatin.

Uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, donkey-hide gelatin is believed to have blood-enriching and yin-nourishing properties. It is commonly prescribed for conditions related to blood deficiency, such as anemia, dizziness, and pallor. It is also used to treat bleeding disorders, such as heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding in the digestive tract. Additionally, donkey-hide gelatin is used to moisten the lungs and alleviate dry coughs, as well as to calm the spirit and treat insomnia.

Controversies and Ethical Concerns

The production of donkey-hide gelatin has been the subject of controversy due to the ethical implications of using donkeys for medicinal purposes. The demand for donkey-hide gelatin has led to a decrease in donkey populations in some countries, as well as concerns about the welfare of the animals involved. In response to these concerns, some manufacturers have started to explore synthetic alternatives or other sources of gelatin, though these are not yet widely accepted in TCM.

Conclusion

Donkey-hide gelatin remains a popular and valued component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, despite the ethical and environmental concerns associated with its production. Its long history and continued use underscore the importance of finding sustainable and humane ways to produce this traditional remedy.