【Prescription Name】
Four Applications Ointment
【Composition】
2 liang of Tung Oil, 7 qian of Beeswax, 7 qian of Calcined Gypsum, 7 qian of Rhubarb.
【Preparation Method】
First, heat the Tung Oil and Beeswax, then add Calcined Gypsum and Rhubarb, stir well to make an ointment.
【Efficacy and Indications】
For sores such as abscesses, carbuncles, ulcers, and dermatitis.
【Dosage and Administration】
Apply the ointment once a day, do not wash with water, apply the ointment in a windless area. If there is pus or fullness, do not change the medication, instead apply the ointment on the old skin. If there is itching, apply fresh ginger juice to the itchy area or mix it with the ointment. For abscesses, wash with ginger and onion decoction before applying the ointment.
【Precautions for the Ointment】
1. Do not keep the ointment for the next year
The ointment is usually made fresh and without preservatives. It should not be kept for the next year as it may become moldy over time, especially in warm winters, which can be harmful to the body. Generally, store the ointment in a cool place, preferably in the refrigerator, but it must be consumed within the same season.
2. Take the ointment after meals for gastrointestinal conditioning
There are two ways to take the ointment: dissolving it in water or letting it dissolve in the mouth. Generally, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach in the morning as the ointment is usually nourishing and greasy, which facilitates absorption. However, if it is used for gastrointestinal diseases or if taking it on an empty stomach causes discomfort or decreased appetite, it should be taken about 1 hour after meals.
3. Dietary restrictions when taking the ointment
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming coffee, cola, or other caffeinated beverages, as well as oily, seafood, and greasy foods.
If the ointment contains ginseng, avoid eating radishes and green tea. Do not take the ointment with milk, there should be at least one hour interval. For those with Yin deficiency constipation or hot flashes, avoid spicy and irritating foods. For those with Yang deficiency and aversion to cold, avoid consuming raw and cold foods, and follow the doctor's instructions.
【Toxicity of Tung Oil】
Tung oil has a high toxicity and is usually used externally. It is forbidden to take it internally. Cases of poisoning are usually caused by ingesting Tung oil mistakenly thinking it is regular cooking oil.
The main symptoms include nausea, frequent vomiting, followed by abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, limb convulsions, numbness and coldness of the hands and feet, vomiting blood, bloody stools, and fever. Severe cases may lead to coma and laryngeal spasms.
