The exploitation of animals in traditional medicine continues to harm both nonhuman animals and humans. Despite advancements in modern medicine and scientific evidence questioning the efficacy of animal products, the traditional medicine industry persists, focusing on ancient remedies known as zootherapeutic remedies. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a significant player in this industry, with popular remedies involving animal parts like tiger bones, rhino horns, bear bile, pangolin scales, and more. Not only does this industry harm animals, but it also poses risks to human health, fuels illegal wildlife trade, and damages the environment by targeting endangered species.

Overall, the use of animals in traditional medicine causes harm on multiple levels, whether through the exploitation of animals, endangerment of species, or misleading claims about the effectiveness of remedies. Efforts to shift away from using animal products in traditional medicine and towards more ethical and evidence-based practices are necessary to protect both animal welfare and human health.