Some is illegally smuggled to Hong Kong's medicine shops. People believe because it's farmed, it's okay. Unlike tiger bone, which has a mythical reputation as an arthritis cure, bear bile has proven medicinal value. First listed in Chinese medical journals in the seventh century, it is widely prescribed in traditional treatments for ailments such as chronic liver problems, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. In Korea it is used as a general tonic.
Practitioners say the synthetic version is as effective as the real thing.
And it is becoming more popular. Already, nearly 100 tons of synthesized bile are consumed every year in China, Japan and South Korea. There are also at least 54 herbal alternatives, including common rhubarb and a type of gardenia. Dr. Lo Yan-wo, who has been practicing traditional Chinese medicine in Hong Kong for 35 years, says there is no reason to use real bile. Research shows there are many combinations of herbs available that can be administered for ailments currently treated with bear bile.