Rhino horns are primarily used in two ways: for traditional medicine (especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM) and as a status symbol among wealthy individuals in some Asian countries[1][2][4].
In traditional Chinese medicine, rhino horn has been used for over 2,000 years to treat a range of ailments, including fever, rheumatism, gout, snake bites, vomiting, and even so-called supernatural conditions such as “devil possession”[1][2][3][5][7]. Rhino horn is usually ground into a powder and dissolved in boiling water before being ingested[1][2]. Although horns are claimed to “dispel heat” and “cool the blood” by TCM practitioners, there is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of rhino horn as a medicine[3][6][7].
Outside of medicinal purposes, rhino horns increasingly serve as a status symbol or display of wealth, particularly in Vietnam and China[1][2][4][6][8]. Owning, gifting, or displaying rhino horn products is often seen as evidence of affluence and prestige, and they can be presented on special occasions or given as luxurious gifts[2][4][8]. Decorative uses, such as carvings or display items, have also become common among the super-wealthy class[4][8].
References
- [1] Poaching | Rhino Threats
- [2] What Drives the Demand for Rhino Horn?
- [3] Medicinal Use and Legalized Trade of Rhinoceros Horn
- [4] Rhino horn in Asia
- [5] Rhino Horn | Pages | WWF
- [6] Cutting off rhino horns to prevent poaching makes them …
- [7] As a medicine, study finds rhino horn useless
- [8] Significance of Rhinos
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