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A variety of traditional herbs and spices used in herbal medicine practices

Understanding Porcupine Dates

An educational resource about bezoars — their traditional use, what science currently shows, and what remains unknown.

This site does not sell porcupine bezoars or wildlife products.

A traditional stone mortar and pestle used for grinding herbs and spices
Traditional stone mortar and pestle — a common tool in herbal preparation across Southeast Asia.

What Are Porcupine Dates?

Porcupine dates (bezoars) are hardite masses found in the digestive tracts of porcupines. They have been used in traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian medicine for centuries. This platform provides educational information about these substances with careful attention to evidence quality and ethical considerations.

What Does the Evidence Say?

Most claims about porcupine dates are based on traditional use and limited laboratory studies. There are currently no published human clinical trials. We present what is known alongside what remains unproven.

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Safety First

Be cautious of predatory sellers and fake products. Porcupine dates are not a replacement for medical care. If you or a loved one is facing a health crisis, consult qualified healthcare professionals first.

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Ethics & Conservation

The porcupine date trade raises serious conservation and animal welfare concerns. We advocate for ethical, legal, and sustainable approaches to wellness.

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