For those living abroad, few things evoke nostalgia like the flavors of home and the traditional Chinese medicines that nurtured us since childhood. However, sending these herbal remedies to friends and family in the United States requires careful consideration of regulations and restrictions.
Legal Channels: Safety First
To ensure traditional Chinese medicines reach the U.S. successfully, choosing proper channels is essential. Smuggling is strictly prohibited. Currently, there are two primary legal options:
- China Post EMS: The official government channel offers reliable service, though delivery times may be longer.
- International couriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx): These provide faster service with better tracking, but at higher costs.
Regardless of the chosen method, compliance with customs regulations in both countries is mandatory.
Prohibited Items: Absolute Restrictions
U.S. Customs maintains strict prohibitions on certain traditional medicines:
- Endangered species products: Including tiger bone, rhino horn, and musk—all protected under wildlife conservation laws.
- Toxic substances: Such as aconite (wutou) and monkshood (fuzi), which contain potentially lethal compounds.
- Live plants or animals: Including cordyceps with intact insect bodies or any living medicinal materials.
Packaging Considerations: Protection and Compliance
Proper packaging serves dual purposes—protecting the medicines and facilitating customs clearance:
- Original packaging: Maintain original labels showing medicine names, ingredients, and manufacturer information.
- Moisture protection: Use sealed or vacuum packaging to prevent deterioration and cross-contamination.
- Minimalist approach: Remove unnecessary packaging to reduce weight and shipping costs.
Customs Declaration: Accuracy Matters
All shipments to the U.S. require complete customs declarations:
- Specific names: Avoid generic terms like "Chinese medicine"—list exact items such as ginseng, goji berries, or angelica root.
- Precise quantities: Clearly state weights in grams or kilograms.
- Intended use: Specify "personal medical use" or "health supplement." Including a doctor's prescription copy is advisable when applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which common traditional medicines can be mailed to the U.S.?
Generally, non-endangered, non-toxic substances for personal use (typically under three months' supply) such as goji berries, red dates, chrysanthemum, and American ginseng are permitted. However, verification with customs or courier services is recommended.
Are there additional fees for shipping traditional medicines?
Beyond standard shipping costs, potential additional charges include customs clearance fees and import duties, varying by carrier and product type.
What if customs detains a shipment?
Recipients typically receive notification and may need to provide supporting documents (prescriptions, purchase receipts). Non-compliant items risk return or destruction.
Successful international shipment of traditional Chinese medicine hinges on strict compliance with regulations, proper documentation, and transparent declarations—ensuring these cultural remedies reach their intended recipients without legal complications.