Prepared Anteater Scales (Chao Shan Jia Zhu)

"Prepared Anteater Scales" (Chao Shan Jia Zhu, 炒穿山甲珠) refers to a form of processed pangolin scales used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Pangolin scales have been historically believed to promote blood circulation, reduce swelling, and help with lactation issues. However, due to the severe decline in pangolin populations and international bans on their trade, the use of pangolin scales is now highly restricted and illegal in many countries.

Since pangolin scales are now highly restricted due to conservation efforts, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners have sought ethical and legal alternatives with similar medicinal properties. Here are some plant- and mineral-based substitutes for the functions that pangolin scales were traditionally used for:

1. Promoting Blood Circulation & Reducing Swelling

• Wang Bu Liu Xing (Vaccaria Seeds, 王不留行) – Used to invigorate blood circulation and reduce swelling.
• Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza, 丹参) – A powerful herb known for promoting circulation and resolving stasis.
• San Leng (Sparganium, 三棱) & E Zhu (Curcuma zedoaria, 莪术) – Both help break up blood stasis and reduce swelling.

2. Promoting Lactation & Unblocking Milk Ducts

• Tong Cao (Tetrapanax papyrifer, 通草) – Often used to promote lactation and clear heat.
• Pu Gong Ying (Dandelion, 蒲公英) – Has anti-inflammatory properties and aids milk flow.
• Dong Kui Zi (Malva Seed, 冬葵子) – Helps with insufficient lactation and urinary issues.

3. Reducing Abscesses & Sores

• Lian Qiao (Forsythia Fruit, 连翘) – A natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herb.
• Bai Jiang Cao (Patrinia, 败酱草) – Used for infections, abscesses, and clearing pus.

These alternatives are widely used in TCM and align with ethical, sustainable practices.