There are more than 450 substances commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine. The majority are of plant origin, though some mineral or animal substances may also be used. You may find some in your kitchen, such as ginger, garlic and cinnamon, while others such as chrysanthemum and peony flowers are more likely to be found in your garden. Some substances that were used traditionally, are no longer part of modern professional Chinese herbal medicine practice. For example, traditional remedies that are derived from endangered species have been replaced by other substances with similar actions.