Stop Itch Tincture
Because people’s skin reacts differently, begin by applying to a small test area before applying to larger areas and avoid exposing the area to UV light. Sensitive individuals may experience photosensitive reactions.
Zhi Yang Ding, or Stop Itching Tincture, is a well-known Chinese dermatological formula for external applications. Our version is based on precedents from "A Handbook of Traditional Chinese Dermatology" by Liang Jian-hui and "A Study of Chinese External Medicine" (Zhong Yi Wai Ke Xue)
Functions
Stops itching and kills worms.*
Ingredients
Isopropyl Alcohol
She Chuang Zi (Fructus Cnidii Monnieri)
Bai Bu (Radix Stemonae)
Bo He (Herba Menthae Haplocalycis)
Ku Fan (Alumen)
Bing Pian (Borneol)
Method of Use
Apply to a small area first in order to assess each individual’s reaction. Peoples’ skin is highly variable in its reaction. As long as there are no side or unwanted effects, apply to larger areas as necessary.
Formula Rationale
Within this formula, She Chuang Zi (Fructus Cnidii Monnieri), Bai Bu (Radix Stemonae), and Bo He (Herba Menthae Haplocalycis) are all famous Chinese medicinals for stopping itching. She Chuang Zi dries dampness, kills worms,* and stops itching; Bai Bu kills worms especially when applied externally;* and Bo He clears heat and resolves the exterior, thus effusing wind evils depressed in the skin. Bing Pian (Borneol) is an aromatic substance which opens the orifices when taken internally. When used topically, it clears heat and resolves toxins as well as stops itching. However, it also thins or loosens the interstices so that the other medicinals can cross the barrier of the skin more easily. Ming Fan is an alternate name for Bai Fan (Alumen) or Ku Fan and comes from the category of substances specifically for topical application. It resolves toxins and dries dampness, kills worms and stops itching. It is particularly effective for itching when combined with Bai Bu and with She Chuang Zi. Ming Fan is an important ingredient in the practice of Chinese medical dermatology.
*Killing worms refers to the Chinese medical treatment principle. In Chinese medicine, "worms" can be visible or invisible and do not necessarily mean the worms of modern Western medicine. For instance, dermatomycoses can be categorized as invisible worms in Chinese medicine.
