19/06/2026
🐉 Happy Dragon Boat Festival from the Department of Pharmacology & Pharmacy! 🛶✨
Did you know that the Dragon Boat Festival has deep historical roots in early medicine and public health? 🌿🔬
Traditionally, the fifth lunar month was considered a time when summer heat brought about pests and illnesses. To ward off diseases, people hung Mugwort (Artemisia argyi) and Calamus by their doors, and wore fragrant herbal sachets.
From a pharmacological perspective, it makes perfect sense! Many of these traditional aromatic plants contain volatile essential oils (like cineole and camphor) that possess natural antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties. Nature’s early pharmacy at work! 🍃💊
As you celebrate today, here are two quick health tips from us:
🥟 Mind your digestion: Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) are delicious but can be hard to digest. Enjoy them in moderation!
💧 Stay hydrated: If you’re out cheering on the dragon boats in the summer heat, remember to drink plenty of water.
Wishing all our students, faculty, alumni, and friends a healthy, safe, and joyful festival!