The slightest mention of drinking a traditional Chinese medicinal soup would make many cringe because of the complicated process of preparing it.

But instant traditional Chinese medicine in the form of granules has proved effective in combating COVID-19 in Wuhan, Hubei province, and is gaining popularity in Europe.

The first batch of instant traditional medicine in 750 boxes was exported to the Netherlands and Italy on March 8.

Now a total of 26,100 boxes have arrived in Europe, according to Arielle Run, deputy director of the International business Department of the Sichuan Neo-Green Pharmaceutical Technology Development Co in Sichuan province.

The instant medicine, which includes traditional Chinese medicine ingredients such as honeysuckle flower and Astragalus mongholicus, has been made by the company in line with a prescription from the Health Commission of Hubei province.