New report lists costs of raw materials in TCM

Maca, an herb used to boost male sexual potency in traditional Chinese medicine, is likely to maintain its popularity in China if price is a factor.

The herb is one of 513 TCM raw materials listed in a price report released on Monday by the Department of Sociology at Renmin University of China and Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co. It is the first comprehensive compilation of market prices for TCM raw materials and was recognized by the State Administration of TCM.

Prices of TCM raw materials fluctuate a lot, the report showed. Fifty-six percent of those covered saw unit price drops in the second quarter of the year, the report said.