Exploring the Benefits of Bone Setting Water, or Zheng Gu Shui: A Traditional Chinese Herbal Liniment
In the world of traditional Chinese medicine, there are numerous remedies and treatments that have been used for centuries to promote healing and relieve pain. One such remedy is Zheng Gu Shui, a popular herbal liniment known for its remarkable therapeutic properties. In this post, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and benefits of Zheng Gu Shui, shedding light on this time-honored remedy, and why we were inspired to create our Bone Setting Water.
A Brief History:
Zheng Gu Shui, which translates to "mending bone water," has a rich history in Chinese medicine. Its origins can be traced back over 500 years to the Ming Dynasty. Initially developed by a Chinese martial arts master, this liniment was primarily used to treat injuries sustained during combat and physical training. Over time, it gained popularity among athletes, martial artists, and individuals seeking effective pain relief and healing. We have crafted Bone Setting Water by going back to the earliest references of the formula, which is considered by many to be the most effective. We have added some herbs based on our experience as Chinese herbalists and due to popular demand, including arnica and yan hu suo.
Ingredients and Preparation:
Bone Setting Water is formulated using a combination of natural herbs and medicinal plants, carefully selected for their therapeutic properties. While the precise ingredients may vary among different brands, the liniment typically contains a mix of the following herbs:
Zhang Nao (Camphor): Relieves pain, antifungal, anti-itch, anti parasitic, and improves circulation.
Bo He Nao (Menthol): Relieves pain, cooling, opens pores, and allows other herbs to permeate the skin.
Hu Zhang (Knotweed rhizome): Relieves pain and promotes circulation, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiplatelet (unblocks circulation where anticoagulants are ineffective.)
E Zhu (Curcumae rhizome): Promotes circulation, relieves pain, and antibacterial.
Rou Gui (Saigon cinnamon bark): Promotes circulation, encourages generation of qi and blood, antiplatelet, antibacterial, warming, and relaxes muscles.
Bai Zhi (Angelica root): Relieves pain, antibacterial and antifungal, and relaxes muscles.
Hua Jiao (Chinese prickly ash): Warming, relieves and numbs pain, antiparasitic and antibacterial, and promotes circulation.
Xu Chang Qing (Paniculate swallow-wort root): Relieves joint pain, pain due to trauma, heals rashes, sores, and relieves skin itching including eczema and snakebite.
Qian Jin Ba (Moghania root): Strengthens sinew and bone, decreases inflammation, and relieves arthritis and bone pain.
Tian Qi (Notoginseng root): Stops bleeding, relieves pain, and reduces swelling, bruising, and inflammation.
Shan Jin Che (Arnica flower): Anti-inflammatory, relieves bruising, muscle soreness, and aching joints.
Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis): Anti-inflammatory, promotes circulation, calms overactive and painful nerves.
These herbs are combined with alcohol, which acts as a carrier to facilitate the penetration of the liniment into the affected areas.
Benefits:
Pain Relief: Zheng Gu Shui is renowned for its analgesic properties and is commonly used to relieve muscle aches, joint pain, and sprains. It works by increasing blood flow to the affected area, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain.
Improved Circulation: The liniment's herbal ingredients have a warming effect on the skin, promoting blood circulation. This enhanced blood flow helps deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to the injured tissues, supporting the healing process.
Injury Recovery: Zheng Gu Shui is often employed by athletes and individuals recovering from sports injuries or accidents. Its unique blend of herbs aids in reducing swelling, promoting tissue regeneration, and expediting the healing of bruises, strains, and sprains.
Musculoskeletal Conditions: People suffering from chronic conditions such as arthritis or tendonitis may find relief through the application of Zheng Gu Shui. The liniment's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with these ailments.
Proper Usage and Safety Considerations:
When using Bone Setting Water, it is important to follow these guidelines:
External Use Only: Bone Setting Water is designed for external application only. It should not be ingested or applied to broken skin, wounds, or sensitive areas.
Patch Test: Before applying the liniment to a larger area, perform a patch test on a small portion of your skin to check for any adverse reactions.
Application: Apply the liniment to the affected area using gentle massage or by spraying directly, or soaking a cotton ball and placing it on the skin. See our tips and tricks area for more ideas of how to use Bone Setting Water.
Consultation: If you have any underlying medical conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using Bone Setting Water.
Zheng Gu Shui, with its long-standing history and natural formulation, continues to be a popular choice for pain relief and injury recovery in traditional Chinese medicine. Bone Setting Water’s unique blend of herbs, combined with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, make it a versatile remedy for various musculoskeletal conditions. Incorporating Bone Setting Water into your wellness routine may provide you with the support you need to enhance your healing journey and alleviate discomfort.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies or treatments.