Cai Tongde Tang
Time-Honored BrandCai Tongde Tang · Shanghai · Founded 1882
Cai Tongde Tang, a century-old Chinese medicine pharmacy in Shanghai, is renowned for its finely prepared herbal slices and traditional pills, powders, pastes, and ointments. Upholding the heritage of traditional Chinese medicine, it has served generations with quality remedies and nourishing formulas since 1882.
Brand Story
Founded in Shanghai around 1882 during the Qing Dynasty's Guangxu reign by the Cai family from Ningbo, Cai Tongde Tang began as a modest pharmacy near the racecourse in the British Concession. The Cai family, with generations of expertise in medicine, adhered to the motto 'Tongde Tongxin' (shared virtue, shared heart), selecting authentic medicinal herbs and preparing them according to ancient methods. The brand became especially famous for its herbal slices and restorative pastes. During the Republican era, it was counted among Shanghai's 'Four Great Pharmacies' alongside Tong Han Chun, Lei Yun Shang, and Hu Qing Yu. Its products, such as 'Tiger, Deer, and Turtle Gel' and 'Ginseng Rebirth Pill,' were sold both domestically and abroad. After a public-private partnership in 1956, the pharmacy was integrated into Shanghai's traditional Chinese medicine industry, preserving its time-honored techniques. Today, it stands as a China Time-honored Brand, embodying the spirit of Shanghai-style TCM culture and the belief that 'though the process may be unseen, heaven knows the heart.'
“Tongde Tongxin, nourishing life and health”
Signature Products
Selected authentic medicinal herbs, prepared following ancient methods, with neat slices and reliable efficacy. Price range: 50-500 RMB.
A classic Chinese patent medicine used for stroke-induced hemiplegia, with effects of dispelling wind, resolving phlegm, and promoting blood circulation. Price range: 100-300 RMB.
A traditional nourishing gelatin made from tiger bone, deer antler, and turtle shell, which enriches vital essence and strengthens bones and muscles. Price range: 200-1000 RMB.
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
Cai Tongde Tang adheres to the ancestral precept of 'Tongde Tongxin' (shared virtue, shared heart), upholding the principles of 'genuine goods at fair prices, honest with all.' Its processing techniques emphasize methods such as soaking, steeping, calcining, simmering, stir-frying, roasting, steaming, and boiling, with a strong focus on the authenticity of medicinal materials. These traditional preparation processes and business philosophies reflect the inclusive and meticulous nature of Shanghai-style traditional Chinese medicine, offering valuable insights into the development of modern Shanghai's herbal medicine industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Cai Tongde Tang founded?
Cai Tongde Tang was founded in 1882, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Healthcare field.
What is the signature product of Cai Tongde Tang?
Its signature product is Fine Herbal Slices. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: