Cocktail bars in China are adding ingredients used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as traditional health remedies continue to trend in the country, following herbal bubble teas, coffees and other foods.

The new cocktail bars, which incorporate medicinal wine, Sichuan lovage root, red dates and other ingredients, are reportedly marketed at young people in the country. 

Nearly one in five young people between the ages of 16 and 24 are unemployed in China, with many rebelling against burnout after spending many of their childhood years engaged in intense study followed by long working hours in early adulthood.

The late night culture means these cocktail bars are gaining popularity, especially because the bars market drinks designed to promote health and offer a way to experience traditional culture in an entertaining way. 

In some bars a TCM doctor reads the pulse of a guest to determine any physical issues before a mixologist creates a bespoke cocktail, either with or without added alcohol.

TCM in wellness

Swire Hotels’ head of wellness, Kristina Snaith-Lense, told Spa Business last year that Upper House Hong Kong has started a six-month residency partnership with a TCM clinic called Chains.

Although Chains is not specifically offering cocktails, Upper House has recognised the wealth of opportunities provided by TCM modalities in a wellness setting. 

Treatments on offer at the Hong Kong property include acupuncture, cupping, acupuncture for fertility, acupressure massage, herbal teas and TCM prescriptions.