The Legendary Zheng Gu Shui: From Ancient Battlefields to Modern Muscle Relief
In the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), few remedies are as iconic and time-honored as Zheng Gu Shui TM, a potent herbal liniment known colloquially — and somewhat ominously — by its nickname (Evil) Bone Setting Water. Behind the peculiar nickname is a rich tapestry of history, martial arts medicine, and even imperial intrigue.
Let’s discuss the fascinating story behind Zheng Gu Shui TM— where it came from, how it earned its devilish nickname, and how it’s used today to support muscle and bone wellness in a modern context.
What Does "Zheng Gu Shui" Mean?
The literal translation of Zheng Gu Shui TM (正骨水) is “Bone-Setting Water.” In TCM, it refers to a liquid (shui), used to correct/set (zheng), bones (gu), particularly in the treatment of trauma, injuries, and pain involving bones, joints, and connective tissue.
It was traditionally used in ancient Chinese Medicine by martial artists, soldiers, and TCM bonesetters to help “set” injuries and support recovery by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and nourishing sinews. Today, this formula is no longer used for setting bones or injuries, but helps to gently improve blood flow and circulation, and is believed to reduce musculoskeletal pain.
From Martial Arts to Medicine
Historically, Zheng Gu Shui was part of Dit Da Jow (跌打) or “fall-strike” medicine — a branch of TCM developed by martial artists and bonesetters to treat injuries sustained in combat and training. Whether it was bruising, dislocations, fractures, or sprains, Dit Da liniments like Zheng Gu Shui were essential for keeping fighters on their feet.
Commonly used herbs included:
Gu Sui Bu (Drynaria) – literally “mender of shattered bones”
Xu Duan (Dipsacus) – “restore what is broken”
Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) – blood-nourishing and pain-relieving
San Qi (Notoginseng) – stops bleeding, reduces swelling
Hong Hua (Safflower) – invigorates blood, dispels stasis
The base was typically high-proof alcohol, which both preserved the herbs and drove the active constituents deep into tissues when massaged into the skin.
Traditional Uses of Zheng Gu Shui TM
In ancient and classical TCM settings, Zheng Gu Shui TM was perviously used to support healing in:
Bone fractures and dislocations (post-realignment)
Tendon and ligament injuries
Sprains, strains, and joint swelling
Chronic musculoskeletal pain
Deep bruising and hematomas
Overuse injuries from training, farming, or manual labor
Its warming, blood-invigorating action made it especially useful for conditions rooted in Blood Stasis, Qi stagnation, and Cold-Damp obstruction, as described in TCM theory.
Modern-Day Revival: Artisan Formulations
Today, many commercial versions of Zheng Gu Shui TM exist — but some contain synthetic fillers, dyes, or petroleum derivatives, straying from the clean, natural formulations of the past.
In response, new brands have emerged that bring back the purity and potency of traditional formulae, crafted with care and high-quality ingredients.
One of the most exciting modern versions is Zheng Gu Zhi by Shen Alchemy, made right here in Australia.
Zheng Gu Zhi by Shen Alchemy — Ancient Wisdom, Modern Craftsmanship
Zheng Gu Zhi (正骨止) is Shen Alchemy’s reimagined take on these formulae.
Handmade in small batches using traditional techniques, Zheng Gu Zhi is:
✅ Australian-made
✅ Infused with traditional herbs
✅ Powered by camphor and menthol for a penetrating sensation
✅ Free from synthetic dyes, parabens, or petrochemicals
✅ Suitable for muscles, joints, and connective tissue support
Unlike factory-produced versions, Shen Alchemy’s formula is slow-infused and made in small batches, to preserve the spirit of Chinese herbalism — combining deep respect for tradition with modern skin-friendly standards.
Whether you’re an acupuncturist, athlete, or just someone dealing with chronic tightness or soreness, this liniment is a true ally.
Important note: This product (Zheng Gu Zhi), is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure illness, and makes no therapeutic claims.
How to Use Zheng Gu Zhi
Massage a small amount into the area of discomfort
Use 2–3 times daily for best results
Ideal for tight necks, sore backs, bruises, and overworked joints
Do not apply to broken skin
Where to Buy
The Australian made Zheng Gu Zhi is available exclusively through Shen Alchemy’s official website.
The traditional Zheng Gui Shui TM is available from many Asian grocers, and TCM clinics around the world.
