Tag: Zheng Gu Shui

Blood & Bone Combo

Posted on March 6, 2026 by - Pain Management

  • Verified
10 minutes read

Blood & Bone Combo

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Close up of Willard Sheppy

Table of Contents

Blood & bone is a simple idea: hit the pain fast, then help the tissue rebuild. That’s why I put Evil Bone Water and Dragon Blood Balm together in one bundle. You get a liniment that penetrates quickly, and a balm that stays put and protects.

What’s in the Blood & Bone Combo

The bundle includes:

  • Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui)
  • Dragon Blood Balm. 

Evil Bone Water is designed for deep, dense areas where balms struggle to reach.
Dragon Blood Balm focuses on skin, tendons, and the outer layers that need time and protection.

Why the sequence matters

In real life, injuries come in layers. First you feel pain, heat, swelling, or that deep “throb.” Later you deal with stiffness, tender tissue, and slow repair.
This combo matches those layers with a two-step approach:
  • Penetrate first
  • Seal second

Evil Bone Water

What it is

Evil Bone Water is an alcohol-based herbal liniment used for strains, sprains, bruising, swelling, and joint pain.

Why the alcohol base matters

Alcohol solutions in the 60–80% range are widely recognized as highly effective for antimicrobial action. Higher concentrations can be less potent without enough water present.

Regulatory context

The FDA’s OTC monograph for first aid antiseptics includes alcohol (in an aqueous solution) across a broad range (48–95% by volume). That’s one reason alcohol appears so often in “minor cut and scrape” products.

“Goldilocks” percentage + San Qi note

Evil Bone Water is described in our materials as sitting around 74–76% alcohol and being used on minor cuts or broken skin, with San Qi (Tienchi ginseng / notoginseng) noted for a “stop bleeding” effect.

Common-sense caution

You’ll also see guidance in other places to avoid using strong alcohol products on open wounds. Treat this like first aid does: reasonable for superficial nicks and scrapes, not for deep wounds. Expect a brief sting on any abrasion, because alcohol does that.

Dragon Blood Balm

What it is

Dragon Blood Balm is built around Dragon’s Blood resin (commonly from Croton lechleri) and a salve base that stays on the skin longer than a fast-evaporating liniment.

Research-backed wound support

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial (skin wound model), a Dragon’s Blood cream shortened healing time compared with placebo. Researchers also point to phenolics and the alkaloid taspine as likely contributors to wound repair mechanisms.

Antioxidant activity + moist wound principles

Dragon’s Blood sap shows high antioxidant activity in lab testing, which matters because oxidative stress can slow normal tissue repair. “Moist wound” principles are also well supported: keeping tissue appropriately protected and not overly dried out can improve healing quality and speed. That’s one reason a balm can outperform a quick-dry liniment in the repair phase.

How to use the Blood & Bone Combo

Step 1: Apply Evil Bone Water

Apply Evil Bone Water to the target area and rub gently. Let it dry fully.

Step 2: Apply Dragon Blood Balm

Massage a small amount of Dragon Blood Balm over the same area 1–2 times daily.

Why this works better than “either/or”

If you only use a liniment, you can get fast relief but less protection over time. If you only use a balm, you can feel under-supported in the acute pain window. Together, you’re matching the timing your body already uses: immediate response first, rebuilding second.

Using it on minor cuts, scrapes, and irritated skin

For superficial nicks, scrapes, and bug bites, Evil Bone Water is listed for “cuts & insect bites” use. Keep this practical and conservative.

A common-sense first aid approach

  • Clean the surrounding skin first (more on soap below).
  • If the cut is minor and shallow, a light spray of Evil Bone Water can act like a first-aid antiseptic step—expect stinging if the skin is broken.
  • Once dry, apply Dragon Blood Balm to create a protective layer and keep the area from drying out too aggressively.

When not to use this protocol

Skip this protocol and seek medical care for deep wounds, punctures, uncontrolled bleeding, signs of infection, serious burns, or anything involving eyes or mucous membranes.

Blood & Bone Combo

The bundle includes Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) and Dragon Blood Balm. Evil Bone Water is designed for deep, dense areas where balms struggle to reach. Dragon Blood Balm focuses on skin, tendons, and the outer layers that need time and protection.
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Add-on Herbal Ice Soap for a cleaner, calmer start

If you’re building an actual “first aid kit that gets used,” don’t ignore hygiene. Harsh soaps can strip the barrier and make irritated skin angrier.

Herbal Ice Skin Soothing Mild Bar Soap was designed for reactive, inflamed skin and specifically calls out “wound care hygiene” as a use case—cleaning the surrounding area without over-stripping.

Simple routine

Wash gently → rinse well → pat dry → then do the Blood & Bone steps.
Consistency is what makes outcomes predictable.

Who this blood bone combo for

This combo fits people who bruise easily, train hard, work physical jobs, or just want a smarter home protocol. It’s also for the person who’s tired of choosing between “it works fast” and “it supports healing.”

The point is to help you get back to normal life sooner walking comfortably, training without fear, and not babying an injury for weeks.

Bottom Line

If you want the cleanest way to use these products, start with the Blood & Bone sequence: Evil Bone Water first, Dragon Blood Balm second. Add Herbal Ice Soap if skin irritation or wound hygiene is part of the story. You’ll end up with a routine you can actually follow, which is the real “secret” in topical care.

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Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
By Will Sheppy, L.Ac
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What is Microgard?
Microgard is a 16-herb formula evolved from the traditional digestive remedies Bao He Wan and Po Chai Pills, refined for functional dyspepsia (chronic indigestion). It addresses multiple causes of persistent upset stomach at the same time, from poor motility to inflammation and gut-brain signaling.
Take 8–25 micro pills, 2–3 times daily, or follow your healthcare practitioner’s instructions. Because these are micro pills — much smaller than standard capsules or tablets — the dosage may sound high, but the tiny size makes them easy to swallow and adjust to your needs.
Each bottle contains 18 g of traditional micro pills. Since there are no preservatives, keep the bottle in a cool, dry place and refrigerate after opening. For best results, finish the bottle as soon as possible once opened.
If you eat a Standard American Diet, have chronic indigestion (functional dyspepsia) or other digestive symptoms, and have signs of gut dysbiosis like a thick tongue coating, Microgard is likely a good formula for you. If you are unsure about Microgard, contact a TCM professional (licensed acupuncturist) who can determine if it’s the best fit.
Yes. Microgard contains no additives or preservatives, only the 16 traditional herbs. Ingredients are sourced from authentic growing regions, verified by TCM botanical experts, and tested for purity, heavy metals, and pesticide residues at a Chinese FDA-certified lab.
Microgard is not suitable during pregnancy, or for people with Celiac Disease. Consult your healthcare practitioner if you are nursing or taking medications.
Many people notice reduced bloating and post-meal heaviness within 1–2 weeks. More complete resolution of functional dyspepsia symptoms develops over several months as digestive function rebalances.
Most digestive aids only target one problem acid blockers reduce acid, enzymes help with breakdown, probiotics support gut bacteria. Microgard does all three plus more: improving motility, calming inflammation, protecting the stomach lining, and regulating the gut-brain axis. That’s why it’s uniquely effective for complex conditions like functional dyspepsia.
Microgard is manufactured by Botanical Biohacking, using time-honored herbal methods combined with modern GMP-certified quality testing to ensure safety and potency.

Resources

FDA OTC Monograph M003 (First Aid Antiseptic)

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WHO hand hygiene scientific review (alcohol 60–80% most effective)

WHO Guidelines PDF

WHO/NCBI “Review of preparations used for hand hygiene” (contains the 60–80% statement)

Namjoyan et al., 2015 (Dragon’s Blood cream wound-healing clinical trial)

PubMed

Full text (PMC)

Escobar et al., 2018 (Dragon’s Blood sap storage stability + antioxidant activity)

MDPI

PubMed

Li et al., 2012 (anti-inflammatory/analgesic effects; Substance P/COX-2 mechanisms in rats)

PubMed

Nuutila et al., 2021 (benefits of moist wound healing)

PubMed

Full text (PMC)

The Bottom Line on Microgard

If you’re ready to stop living with bloating, burning, and meals that leave you feeling weighed down, now is the perfect time to make a change. Microgard delivers comprehensive support for functional dyspepsia and chronic indigestion by addressing every system involved: inflammation, barrier repair, motility, and the gut-brain connection.

Don’t settle for band-aid solutions that only mask symptoms. Order Microgard today and take the first
step toward eating comfortably, restoring balance, and feeling like yourself again.

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Which Is Better Zheng Gu Shui, Evil Bone Water, or Biofreeze?

Posted on January 1, 2026 by - Staff

  • Verified
13 minutes read

Which Is Better: Zheng Gu Shui, Evil Bone Water, or Biofreeze?

Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS

Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

Table of Contents

When It Comes to Topical Pain Relief, the Details Matter

As an acupuncturist, I use topical sprays every single day in the clinic. They’re not all the same. 

When it comes to topical pain relief, choosing the right topical matters. Zheng Gu Shui is a traditional Chinese herbal liniment with centuries of use. Evil Bone Water is a contemporary, handcrafted version of Zheng Gu Shui, made with high-grade herbs. Biofreeze gel is a widely used menthol-based analgesic. .

Below is a clear, experience-based comparison written for patients based on what I actually use, what I don’t, and why.

Key Takeaways

  • Biofreeze is useful for quick cooling, lubrication, and clean application, but it’s not a tissue-healing formula.
  • Zheng Gu Shui is a powerful traditional trauma liniment best suited for acute injuries, bruises, and short-term use.
  • Evil Bone Water builds on Zheng Gu Shui by adding herbs that support inflammation control, circulation, and long-term tissue repair.

Video Comparison: Side-by-Side Spray Test

Video: Biofreeze vs Evil Bone Water: Side-by-Side Spray Test & Residue Comparison

https://youtube.com/shorts/o9-y46R47JQ?feature=share

In this video, I spray Biofreeze and Evil Bone Water side by side and let them dry.

What stood out immediately: Biofreeze dried into a crusty, filmy residue, while Evil Bone Water evaporated cleanly with no tacky film

Comparison Chart: Biofreeze vs Zheng Gu Shui vs Evil Bone Water

Feature

Biofreeze Gel

Zheng Gu Shui

Evil Bone Water

Typical Price (3–4 oz)

$11–$15+

$20–$35+

$40–$42+

Active Ingredients

Menthol 4%

Camphor 5.6%, Menthol 5.6%

Natural camphor, natural menthol

Herbal Components

Aloe, arnica, burdock (supporting extracts)

Blood-moving trauma herbs: knotweed, swallowwort, prickly ash, zedoary

Chronic injury & healing herbs: San-Qi, Gui Pi, E Zhu, Bai Zhu, Hu Zhang, Huang Qin, more

Alcohol Base

Yes (isopropyl alcohol)

Yes (alcohol + water)

Yes (high-proof alcohol)

Residue / Sensation

Cooling; can leave a tacky film; won’t stain

Cooling; dries clean; may stain

Warming + cooling; dries clean; may stain

Healing Support

Short-term symptom relief

Traditional support for acute injury

Enhanced support for inflammation & chronic pain

If you’re dealing with lingering pain or an injury that just won’t fully resolve, this is the topical I reach for in my clinic.

Evil Bone Water goes beyond surface cooling and is designed to support circulation, inflammation, and tissue recovery.

Try Evil Bone Water and feel the difference.

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How I Use These in Practice

I use Biofreeze and Evil Bone Water in my clinic—but for very different reasons.

Why I Use Biofreeze

Biofreeze is useful because it’s:
  • Affordable in bulk
  • Packaged in durable plastic bottles
  • Clear, non-greasy, and non-staining
  • Fast and consistent
I use Biofreeze when I’m not trying to heal tissue, but when I need:
  • A quick-drying lubricant
  • Light cooling feedback
  • Something patients won’t feel on their clothes
Specifically, I use it:
  • At the end of acupuncture treatments during gua sha
  • During short silicone cupping sessions
  • When comfort and cleanliness matter more than depth
In those moments, Biofreeze does its job.

What I Don’t Like About Biofreeze

I recently ran a simple test in the clinic: Biofreeze on one surface, Evil Bone Water on another, camera rolling, then wait.

What I saw surprised me.

Biofreeze dried into a visible, grimy film.

That matters because:
  • If it leaves residue on surfaces, it’s likely doing the same on skin
  • There are plenty of user reviews mentioning irritation
  • I’m not comfortable with repeated, long-term use of something that leaves a film
So while Biofreeze is a helpful tool, I don’t see it as something that supports long-term healing.

Why I Don’t Use Solstice Zheng Gu Shui in the Clinic

I don’t use the Solstice Med version of Zheng Gu Shui not because the formula is bad historically, but because it doesn’t work for a busy clinic.
My reasons are straightforward:
  • Bottles are too small for high-volume use
  • Added dyes aren’t something I want on skin or clothing
For occasional personal use? Fine.
For consistent clinical work? It doesn’t fit.

Why I Use Evil Bone Water

When I’m actually trying to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and help tissue recover, this is what I reach for.

I use Evil Bone Water when:

  • Pain is persistent or chronic
  • Cheaper sprays helped but plateaued
  • There’s real tissue injury or strain
  • I want more than surface-level cooling

What I Like:

  • High-quality, clinic-grade herbs
  • Natural menthol and camphor
  • A higher-grade alcohol extraction
  • Gentler feel for sensitive skin

What I don’t like:

  • Glass bottle isn’t great for travel
  • It can stain white clothing (usually washes out)
  • Some people dislike the herbal smell
Even with those downsides, I still choose it because healing, not convenience, is the goal.

Ingredient Philosophy

Biofreeze: Modern Pharmaceutical Logic

Biofreeze’s inactive ingredients come from:
  1. Pharmaceutical formulation science (delivery, texture, stability)
  2. Cosmetic dermatology (skin feel, irritation reduction)
  3. Wellness signaling (plant extracts that look natural but aren’t part of a true herbal system)
These ingredients help the product feel good—but they’re not working together as a medicinal formula.

Zheng Gu Shui: Acute Trauma Logic

Zheng Gu Shui is designed to:

  • Move blood aggressively
  • Break stagnation
  • Reduce pain and bruising fast
It’s intentionally strong and simple—ideal for fresh sprains, bruises, and impact injuries, but not built for long-term tissue repair.

Evil Bone Water: Chronic Injury & Repair Logic

Evil Bone Water keeps the trauma-clearing foundation but expands it:

  • Moves blood and controls inflammation
  • Warms channels and relaxes tight tissue
  • Supports tendons, joints, and bone
  • Helps old injuries finally resolve
That shift from “stop pain now” to “help tissue heal” is why it performs differently.

The Bottom Line

  • Biofreeze → quick, clean, affordable, light cooling, functional lubricant
  • Solstice Zheng Gu Shui → traditional formula, but not practical for clinic use
  • Evil Bone Water → when healing, circulation, and long-term pain resolution actually matter

Evil Bone Water

Evil Bone Water (Zheng Gu Shui) is a Chinese topical medicinal hand-crafted with only empirical grade herbal ingredients in an approved facility, by Saint Apothecary
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Ingredient Lists

Biofreeze — Ingredients

  • Menthol (4%)
  • Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
  • Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract
  • Arnica Montana Flower Extract
  • Blue 1 (synthetic dye)
  • Boswellia Carterii Resin Extract
  • Calendula Officinalis Extract
  • Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
  • Camphor
  • Carbomer
  • Glycerin
  • Ilex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Leaf Extract
  • Isopropyl Alcohol
  • Isopropyl Myristate
  • Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract
  • Silica
  • Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
  • Triethanolamine
  • Water
  • Yellow 5 (synthetic dye)

Zheng Gu Shui — Ingredients

  • Camphor (5.6%)
  • Menthol (5.6%)
  • Alcohol
  • Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) Rhizome
  • Paniculate Swallowwort Root
  • Shin-leaf Prickly Ash Root
  • Zedoary Rhizome
  • Water

Evil Bone Water — Ingredients

  • Zhang Nao (Natural Camphor)
  • Bo He Nao (Natural Menthol)
  • San / Tian Qi (Notoginseng)
  • Gui Pi (Cinnamon Bark)
  • E Zhu (Zedoary Rhizome)
  • Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome)
  • Hu Zhang (Knotweed Rhizome)
  • Bai Niu Dan (Inula cappa)
  • Qian Jin Ba (Flemingia Root)
  • Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root)
  • High-grade alcohol (traditional extraction medium)

Testimonials

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Will Sheppy, Founder and Acupuncturist at Valley Health Clinic
Willard Sheppy Dipl. OM, LAc, BS
Willard Sheppy is a licensed acupuncturist (LAc) and Founder of Valley Health Clinic specializing in using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat acute injuries and chronic conditions, and to improve sports performance and rehabilitation.

FAQ's

About Microgard
What is Zheng Gu Shui used for?
Zheng Gu Shui is a traditional Chinese liniment most commonly used for acute injuries, such as sprains, bruises, contusions, and impact trauma. Its formula strongly moves blood and helps reduce pain and swelling shortly after injury.

They are related but not the same. Evil Bone Water is inspired by Zheng Gu Shui–style formulas but expands on them by adding herbs that:

  • Reduce ongoing inflammation
  • Support tendons, joints, and connective tissue
  • Address chronic or unresolved injuries

Think of Zheng Gu Shui as acute trauma support, and Evil Bone Water as trauma + healing.

Biofreeze relies on menthol as a counter-irritant, which creates a cooling sensation that temporarily interrupts pain signals. Its inactive ingredients are designed for:

  • Texture
  • Fast drying
  • Skin feel
  • Shelf stability

It’s engineered more like a pharmaceutical gel than a medicinal herbal formula.

Biofreeze can mask pain temporarily, but it does not biologically address inflammation or tissue repair in the way herbal formulas are designed to. That’s why I use it as a tool not as a healing strategy.
  • Biofreeze: Does not stain
  • Zheng Gu Shui: Can stain due to dyes and herbal pigments
  • Evil Bone Water: May stain light or white clothing, but typically washes out

I recommend applying herbal liniments before dressing or covering the area if needed.

  • Biofreeze: Generally well tolerated, but some users report irritation with frequent use
  • Zheng Gu Shui: Strong; best for short-term use
  • Evil Bone Water: Uses natural menthol and camphor and is often gentler, but still strong. The natural ingredients makes it safe for many people sensitive skin.

References

Yang, X., Wang, Y., Bai, L., Miao, T., & Wen, X. (2023). Mechanism of action of Baohe pills in improving functional dyspepsia. MEDS Chinese Medicine, 5(7), 48–55. Clausius Scientific Press. https://doi.org/10.23977/medcm.2023.050707

Maideen N. M. P. (2023). Adverse Effects Associated with Long-Term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors. Chonnam medical journal, 59(2), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.4068/cmj.2023.59.2.115

Tu, Y., Luo, X., Liu, D., Li, H., Xia, H., Ma, C., Zhang, D., Yang, Y., Pan, X., Wang, T., Xia, Y., Dan, H., You, P., & Ye, X. (2022). Extracts of Poria cocos improve functional dyspepsia via regulating brain-gut peptides, immunity and repairing of gastrointestinal mucosa. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 95, 153875. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153875

Chen, X. Y., Chen, H. M., Liu, Y. H., Zhang, Z. B., Zheng, Y. F., Su, Z. Q., Zhang, X., Xie, J. H., Liang, Y. Z., Fu, L. D., Lai, X. P., Su, Z. R., & Huang, X. Q. (2016). The gastroprotective effect of pogostone from Pogostemonis Herba against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.), 241(2), 193–204. https://doi.org/10.1177/1535370215600099

Zhen, B. X., Cai, Q., & Li, F. (2023). Chemical components and protective effects of Atractylodes japonica Koidz. ex Kitam against acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer in rats. World journal of gastroenterology, 29(43), 5848–5864. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v29.i43.5848

Lee, H.-A., Yoo, J.-H., Chung, Y., & Kim, O. (2017). Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori-induced inflammation in human gastric epithelial AGS cells by the fruits of Tribulus terrestris L. extracts. Journal of Biomedical and Translational Research, 18(3), 121–124. https://doi.org/10.12729/jbtr.2017.18.3.121

Wang, Q., Shen, Z. N., Zhang, S. J., Sun, Y., Zheng, F. J., & Li, Y. H. (2022). Protective effects and mechanism of puerarin targeting PI3K/Akt signal pathway on neurological diseases. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 1022053. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.1022053

Zhao, H., Feng, Y. L., Wang, M., Wang, J. J., Liu, T., & Yu, J. (2022). The Angelica dahurica: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 896637. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.896637

Feng, L., A, L., Li, H., Mu, X., Ta, N., Bai, L., Fu, M., & Chen, Y. (2023). Pharmacological Mechanism of Aucklandiae Radix against Gastric Ulcer Based on Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Experiment. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 59(4), 666. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59040666

Fu, X., Wang, Q., Kuang, H., & Pinghui, J. (2020). Mechanism of Chinese medicinal-medicated leaven for preventing and treating gastrointestinal tract diseases. Digestion, 101(6), 659–666. https://doi.org/10.1159/000493424

Microgard By Botanical BioHacking Close up

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That’s why, in my clinic, Evil Bone Water is what I use when the goal is healing, not just temporary relief.

It’s built on the traditional Zheng Gu Shui framework, upgraded with higher-grade herbs, natural camphor and menthol, and a formulation designed to support circulation, calm inflammation, and help damaged tissue recover over time.

It’s not the cheapest option

But it’s the one I trust when results actually matter.

If you’re ready to move beyond surface-level relief, try Evil Bone Water the same topical I use in clinical practice

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