During the circuit breaker to slow the spread of Covid-19, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinics may stay open only for the delivery of essential services.
Yet it seems rather inequitable that while pharmacies that sell Western medicine are allowed to continue operating during the circuit breaker, TCM shops are barred from doing so.
TCM herbal pills, plasters, ointments and lotions, which are generally not available in pharmacies, are effective remedies for a range of ailments, especially minor injuries due to sprains, strains and sports.
Many of these TCM products are made locally and are certified under the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) scheme, which ensures that products are consistently produced and controlled in line with quality standards. Furthermore, they are allowed for sale as Chinese proprietary medicines by Singapore’s authorities.