Zi Cao Gao — Lithospermum Ointment
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Overview
Zi Cao Gao — the “Lithospermum Ointment” (sometimes Zi Yun Gao or Purple Cloud Ointment) — is a classical Chinese topical ointment, also widely used in Japanese Kampo medicine where it is known as Shiunko. The formula was popularised by Hua Shu Yang in the Edo period and remains one of the most widely used herbal ointments globally.
The deep-purple ointment is made by infusing Zi Cao (gromwell root, source of the colour) and Dang Gui in sesame oil, then thickening with beeswax. Additional herbs vary by source but commonly include Bai Zhi, Ru Xiang and Mo Yao. The ointment cools Heat, relieves toxin, moves Blood and promotes healing of damaged or inflamed skin.
It is one of the few Chinese herbal preparations that is genuinely useful as a household remedy — safe, gentle, with no need for individualised prescription, suitable for burns, minor cuts, eczema, nappy rash and other inflamed skin presentations.
Use pattern
Zi Cao Gao is applied topically for Heat and toxin in the skin with poor healing:
- Minor burns and scalds after initial cooling
- Eczema and inflamed skin
- Slow-healing wounds and ulcers
- Nappy rash
- Sore nipples during breastfeeding
- Cracked lips and chapped skin
- Mild radiation dermatitis
- Insect bites and stings in healing phase
Key herbs
- Zi Cao (gromwell root, Lithospermum erythrorhizon) — chief; cools Blood and resolves toxin
- Dang Gui — nourishes and moves Blood
- Sesame oil — carrier; gentle moisturising
- Beeswax — thickening agent
Some preparations also include Bai Zhi, Ru Xiang and Mo Yao for stronger Blood-moving and antimicrobial action.
Ointment actions
- Cools Heat and clears toxin from the skin
- Moves Blood and resolves stagnation
- Moistens and protects skin
- Promotes wound healing
Conditions treated
- Minor burns and scalds (after cooling under cold water) — first or partial second-degree only
- Atopic eczema flares — mild to moderate — see eczema
- Slow-healing leg ulcers in older adults
- Pressure sores
- Nappy rash — gentle enough for babies’ skin
- Sore nipples during breastfeeding
- Cracked, chapped skin from cold/wind exposure
- Mild radiation dermatitis in cancer patients
- Haemorrhoids (external application)
- Anal fissure
- Vulval irritation from chronic dryness
Cautions
Deep, large or infected burns require medical assessment. Never apply ointment to a fresh full-thickness burn or to deep wounds.
If pus, spreading redness, fever or rapidly worsening skin develops, seek medical attention urgently.
For breastfeeding mothers, wipe the ointment off before feeding (although the ointment is generally safe in small amounts).
Patch-test on a small area first if sensitive or allergic skin.
Contains beeswax; vegan patients should request alternative preparations.
Always consult a qualified Chinese herbalist registered with the RCHM for chronic or severe skin conditions.
Prefer to be treated from home? Chinese herbal medicine online consultations are available throughout the UK and worldwide.
