Two Manpas (traditional physicians) pick herbs that can be used for medicinal bathing in the Tibetan autonomous region. [Photo provided by the National Center for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in China]

This bathing form also is widely recorded through local folklore, epics, dramas, paintings, sculptures, and other fine art forms.

Some parts of this practice became national-level intangible cultural heritage in 2008 and 2014, respectively. In 2015, a special plan was co-drafted by the country's intangible cultural heritage protection center, and cultural department of the Tibetan autonomous region, to guide Lum protection among local communities.

Many methods have been taken to preserve it, like the establishment of a relevant database, promoting its knowledge through school textbooks, and more medical training programs serving residents.