Jintan Day

What Is Jintan Day?

February 11 is "Jintan Day" (Jintan no Hi). It was established by Morishita Jintan Co., Ltd., headquartered in Osaka, and is certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association. The date marks both the company's founding on February 11, 1893, as the pharmaceutical merchant "Morishita Nan'yōdō," and the launch of "Jintan" on February 11, 1905. The small silver pills, known for their cool, refreshing taste and aroma, have been a long seller for more than 100 years.

The History of Jintan

Jintan was developed in 1905 by founder Hiroshi Morishita, who wanted to create "a medicine that is easy to take, carry, and store," and it went on sale as a "pocket medicine." It is a pill made by blending 16 kinds of herbal ingredients, including cassia bark and menthol. Surprisingly, the original Jintan was large and red (coated with bengara, red iron oxide); today's silver pills appeared in 1929.

Origin of the Name

The name "Jintan" combines "jin" (仁, benevolence), regarded as the highest virtue in Confucianism, and "tan" (丹), meaning a good medicine or pill. The founder is said to have received advice on the name from Osaka Confucian scholar Nangaku Fujisawa and others.

Features of Jintan

• Blends 16 herbal ingredients such as cassia bark and menthol, coated with silver leaf
• Freshens the mouth with a cool sensation
• The silver coating is said to improve preservation
• Known for its "formal-dress" trademark, depicting a figure in ceremonial attire (a diplomat, not a soldier)
• The company now also makes health foods, such as bifidobacteria products

Jintan Through the Ages

Because of its distinctive scent, Jintan was typically carried in a dedicated pocket case. The formal-dress trademark has been used since the product's launch and is said to express the founder's wish for "a diplomat who carries health to the world." From the Meiji era to Reiwa, it has continued to be sold, changing its packaging and form along the way.

Morishita Jintan Today

Besides Jintan, Morishita Jintan has produced pharmaceuticals and health foods. Using the technology of wrapping ingredients in tiny capsules developed through Jintan production, it also makes products such as encapsulated bifidobacteria.

The Meaning of Jintan Day

Jintan Day is a day to look back on the history of Jintan and its brand. The coincidence that the company's founding and the product's launch both fall on February 11 is a nice piece of trivia to remember.

Ways to Enjoy the Day

• Look into Jintan's history and learn about hygiene culture in the Meiji era
• Try Jintan yourself and experience its traditional taste and aroma
• Check out Morishita Jintan products and related events
• Look for old "Jintan" signs and the formal-dress trademark around town

A Small Pill with a Long History

Jintan Day is also a day of thanks for the small pills that have supported Japan's health culture. Even as times change, the silver pills have remained a familiar presence for many people.