Medicine As Art

What do Po Chai Pills, Hoe Hin White Flower Oil, and Axe Brand Universal Oil all have in common? They are all traditional Chinese medication that many Singaporeans grew up using, to treat heartburn or insect bites.

French photographer Jose Jeuland, who has lived in Singapore for three years, swears by Tiger Balm ointment, which he always has with him for mosquito bites and body aches.

But Mr Jeuland's interest in Chinese medicine extends beyond its treatment value. The travel and documentary photographer was intrigued by the vintage packaging they come in.

"The designs are so unique - they look like collectors' items. Each design has its own character and charm," says Mr Jeuland. "It made me want to find out more about Asian culture, history and heritage, and also about traditional medicine."

He visited a medical hall, and photographed some of the oldest and most popular medicinal products, specifically those that retained their original packaging. They include Chilli Brand Plaster, Zam-Buk and Cap Tawon Minyak Gosok. He hopes to draw attention back to vintage packaging with his series of photographs.

He found the packaging for Takabb Anti-cough Pills particularly striking for its centipede illustration. "Thank goodness it doesn't contain any real centipedes at all."

View The Art of Chinese Medicine at josejeuland.com/the-art-of-chinese-medicine.