Chinese patent medicines are a popular part of traditional Chinese medicine. They are often small, round, black pills called "teapills." The name comes from the way they are made—herbs are brewed into a strong tea and then shaped into pills. Another type of pill, made with honey or water and ground herbs, is larger and softer than teapills, offering another option for customers.

Today, teapills are made using modern methods, where herbs are extracted in stainless steel extractors to create either a water decoction or water-alcohol decoction. Herbs are processed in stainless steel equipment at moderate temperatures below boiling point (100°C), which is gentle enough to protect important ingredients like vitamins and natural oils. This ensures the pills are effective and safe to use. Depending on the recipe, either water or a mix of water and alcohol is used to extract the herbs. The liquid is then thickened, and powdered herbs are added to make a dough. This dough is cut into small pieces, mixed with a little extra material to make the pills smooth and uniform, and then shaped into the final product.

In addition to teapills, Chinese patent medicines come in many forms, like liquid drops, syrups, powders, granules, instant teas, and capsules. These remedies are made both in China and around the world, helping more people experience the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine.