People enjoy traditional Chinese medicine drinks at a TCM culture night market on Sept 9 at a hospital in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning province. [Photo by ZHANG WENKUI/FOR CHINA DAILY]

Fashionable method

"The demand for fashionable health maintenance is increasing. Wellness is no longer exclusive to the elderly," said Zhang Jingchun, a doctor from the cardiovascular center at the Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in Beijing.

"With the rise in living standards and increased life pressures, discomforts like insomnia, dizziness, palpitations, chest tightness, digestive issues and stress-induced obesity are on the rise. There is a growing desire to improve physical conditions," Zhang said.

However, the use of TCM cuisine should take into consideration one's age, gender, weight and other factors, as well as the different seasons, she said, adding that a small intake each time is preferred.

As for whether TCM cuisine can truly benefit health or is just a marketing method, Zhang said it depends on whether it's a reasonable matching of ingredients and the amount in each product.