CANG ZHU SHUI - Calming Lotion

Also known as: Cang Zhu Shui, Calming Lotion.

A water-based herbal lotion with no oils and no fragrance in it at all. Four herb extracts, aloe, and the minimum needed to keep it stable. That is the whole formula.

It dries rather than moisturises, which is the point. Use it where an emollient would sit on top and make things worse.

What's doing the work

• Ku Shen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix, lightyellow sophora root) clears heat, dries damp and stops itching. It is the classical topical antipruritic in Chinese dermatology and the reason this lotion exists.
• Cang Zhu (Atractylodis Rhizoma) dries damp and dispels wind-damp.
• Bai Bu (Stemonae Radix, Japanese stemona root) is the traditional topical partner to Ku Shen for itch.
• Lu Lu Tong (Liquidambaris Fructus, sweetgum fruit) invigorates blood and unblocks the channels.

How to use

Apply 2 to 4 times in a 24 hour period. Let it dry on the skin.

Pairs well with

Alternates with Huang Lian Gao. Once it has dried, follow with Zi Cao Shui Gao if the skin needs moisture back.

Full ingredients

Aqua (Water), Atractylodis Rhizoma Extract, Liquidambaris Fructus Extract, Stemonae Radix Extract, Sophorae Flavescentis Radix Extract, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Powder, Caprylyl Glycol.

Ingredient list current as of publication. Check the panel on the item you receive.

Good to know

• 6.76 fl oz / 200ml.
• Dermatology M carries a blanket "may contain traces of nuts or seeds" warning on this one. Nothing in the ingredient list is a nut or seed, so that is a shared-facility precaution rather than a formula ingredient.
• No oils, no butters, no fragrance.
• Patch test before the first full application.
• For external use only. Keep out of reach of children.

Dermatology M, formulated by Dr Mazin Al-Khafaji. Selected and reviewed by Dr. Stacee Munroe, OMD, L.Ac. Cosmetic use only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.