The Bone Setting Liquid
Evil Bone Water is a powerful, topical Chinese herbal liniment formally called Zheng XIE Gu Shui. Literally translated, Zheng Gu Shui means “bone-setting liquid.” Its name proved challenging for Westerners to recall. Eventually, the liniment was coined “Evil Bone Water” by herbalists and this quirky nickname stuck!
Its benefits are explained in its traditional name:
- Zheng – “to rectify”
- Gu – “bone”
- Shi – “water”
- XIE – “something that must be corrected or come out of the body.”
- Zheng gu – “bone-setting”
Today, it is used to treat pain and trauma from muscle, bone, and joint injuries. It is popular in martial arts and sports medicine for treating strains, bruises, sprains, and breaks. Evil Bone Water is also beneficial in treating arthritis and carpal tunnel.
How did Evil Bone Water get its name?
The name became common when its creator, Mark T. Brinson, DOM, Ap, was still in school. He had 18 amazing double doctors from China as instructors. They all used Zheng Xie Gu Shu (ZGS) liberally in the student clinic. When asked what ZGS translated to, several of the Master Herbalists would chuckle and say, “Evil Bone Water.”
As Mark learned Medical Chinese, he realized this was far from a literal translation. The true translation is “Rectify or Correct Bone Water.” Now in his practice, Mark often tells this story to patients prescribed Evil Bone Water.
When Herbalists decided to make ZGS using traditional Chinese Medicine methods, the legacy herbs were reintroduced into the formula. Now, Evil Bone Water aka Zheng Xie Gu Shui or “Rectify Evil Bone Water,” contains only the highest-grade herbs available.
The name is a joke. The formula isn’t.
Evil Bone Water is $39 (regularly $58) and ships free. Same liniment, same centuries-old Zheng Gu Shui lineage — just an easier name to remember.
Try Evil Bone Water Yourself
This is the same bottle I keep in the treatment rooms in Albany. It is made in small batches in the USA by Saint Apothecary — restored to the original Zheng Gu Shui formula rather than the watered-down versions that fill most shelves.
$39 $58
Ships free. The topical I reach for first — minor muscle aches, bruises, sprains, stiff joints.
$55 $65
Evil Bone Water + Corydalis Relief Salve. Liniment first to move things, salve on top to hold it there.
411 of 474 customer reviews are 5-star — 95% rate it 4 stars or higher.
Ships free. Free U.S. shipping on orders over $30 — both options qualify.
Made in the USA. Small batches by Saint Apothecary, a veteran-owned maker.
Clinic-tested first. It earns shelf space in my practice before it earns yours.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About the Author
Willard Sheppy is a writer and healthcare practitioner who seamlessly melds scientific knowledge with practical applications in engaging and authoritative articles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the distinguished Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.
In his work, Willard skillfully combines his extensive educational background in scientific research with his practical experience as a healthcare practitioner. Willard balances his life with martial arts and cherished family adventures. As a father of three, he often leads his family on camping and hiking trips along the breathtaking Oregon coast.
Connect with Willard on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/valleyhealthclinic or learn more about his services at valleyhealthclinic.com. Embark on this journey towards holistic health with Willard!
