Experts allay fears over toxic TCM

There is no need to worry about the toxicity of traditional Chinese medicine, as the time-honored therapy is backed by developed theories and drug- making techniques, a leading expert said on Tuesday.

Zhou Chaofan, a researcher with the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, made the remarks in an interview with Xinhua after Australian researchers claimed they had found toxins, allergens and elements of endangered animals in some TCM products.

Scientists at Australia's Murdoch University said the substances were discovered in DNA sequencing tests conducted on 15 TCM products seized by Australian border authorities, according to a story published by the New Zealand Herald last week.