This photo of the old factory depicts the humble origins of these essential balms. Photos provided to Shanghai Star

Huang chose the dragon and tiger because in traditional Chinese culture, the dragon is an auspicious symbol, while the tiger is the king of all beasts. Clearly, Huang expected both his company and the brand to be in an impregnable position on the market.

Apparently, Huang's wish has come true as the Dragon and Tiger brand celebrates its 103rd anniversary this year, and the company is still the leading brand in the same market after being affiliated to Zhonghua Pharmaceutical. The latter is a subsidiary of the listed company Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co Ltd.

Moreover, a variety of new cooling products for external application as well as medical body care products are set to hit shelves under the brand.

Of course, its star product is the essential balm, which was developed by Zhonghua Pharmaceutical with its unique formula and manufacturing technology during the 1950s.

"The essential balm project was rated as top secret national technology, produced only by specially appointed people. Contracts for production were completely confidential," said Ding Jialong, general manager of Shanghai Zhonghua Pharmaceutical Co Ltd.

Not only has the essential balm won a nationwide reputation, it is also exported to more than 80 nations and regions, and hailed as the "oriental magic medicine".