Manufacturers of traditional Chinese medicine are turning to Africa and South Africa for a steady supply of donkeys, whose skin is a key ingredient in the product ejiao. Ejiao is used in many tonics and medicines, and its popularity has caused China's donkey population to be reduced by nearly 50%. The donkeys have been bred specifically for their skin, which can help treat everything from psoriasis to acne. Meanwhile in South Africa, demand for donkeys has led to a steep rise in cruelty.
Manufacturers of traditional Chinese medicine are turning to Africa and South Africa for a steady supply of donkeys, whose skin is a key ingredient in the product ejiao. Ejiao is used in many tonics and medicines, and its popularity has caused China's donkey population to be reduced by nearly 50%. However, Kenyan officials have slapped a ban on exports of the animal, where prices have risen from $34 to $147, putting the livelihoods of local farmers at risk. Meanwhile in South Africa, demand for donkeys has led to a steep rise in cruelty.