Jing Wan Hong (Ching Wan Hung)

What It Is

Jing Wan Hong (精雲紅) or Ching Wan Hung is a traditional Chinese herbal ointment primarily used for burns, scalds, and minor skin injuries. The name roughly translates to “Capital Ten Thousand Red,” referencing its characteristic reddish-brown color and its association with healing and regeneration.

It is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and also recognized internationally, especially among practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine. The ointment typically includes a blend of herbal ingredients such as:

• Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Dong Quai) – for promoting blood circulation and tissue repair.
• Myrrh and Borneol – for pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Phellodendron Bark and Rhubarb Root – for cooling, detoxifying, and reducing heat in TCM terms.
• Sesame oil and beeswax – as base ingredients that soothe and protect the skin.

It is available over the counter in many countries and often used in both household first-aid kits and clinical burn care.

How It Works

Jing Wan Hong works through a combination of pharmacological and traditional mechanisms:

1. Anti-inflammatory action: Many of the herbs, particularly myrrh, rhubarb, and Phellodendron bark, contain compounds that reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate swelling and redness in burn or wound areas.
2. Pain relief: Borneol and myrrh provide a mild analgesic effect, cooling the skin and reducing the pain associated with burns or abrasions.
3. Antibacterial and wound protection: Herbal extracts act as natural antiseptics, minimizing the risk of infection while the wax and oil base form a protective barrier over the wound, keeping it moist and shielded from contaminants.
4. Promotion of healing: Ingredients like Angelica sinensis and sesame oil stimulate blood flow and tissue regeneration, encouraging new skin cell growth and reducing scarring.

In TCM theory, it “clears heat,” “cools the blood,” and “invigorates circulation,” restoring balance to the affected area and facilitating natural healing.

Why It’s Important

Jing Wan Hong is important both historically and clinically for several reasons:

• Effective natural burn treatment: It has been used for decades as a primary topical burn ointment in China and other parts of Asia. Clinical studies and anecdotal evidence indicate that it can significantly reduce pain, blistering, and infection when applied promptly after a burn.
• Scar prevention and tissue repair: With consistent use, it may help minimize scarring and promote smooth skin regeneration, making it especially valuable in treating second-degree burns and minor injuries.
• Cultural and integrative medical relevance: Jing Wan Hong represents the integration of traditional herbal wisdom with modern dermatological care, showing how TCM continues to influence contemporary medicine.
• Accessibility and affordability: It is widely available, inexpensive, and easy to apply—making it a common household remedy, particularly in regions with limited access to advanced wound care.

Considerations

While Jing Wan Hong is generally safe and effective, several considerations should be noted:

1. Proper medical evaluation: It should only be used for minor burns or skin injuries. For severe burns, deep wounds, or large affected areas, professional medical attention is essential.
2. Possible allergic reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic responses to herbal ingredients or the ointment base (e.g., sesame oil or beeswax). A patch test is recommended for first-time users.
3. Not a substitute for antibiotics: While it has mild antibacterial effects, it should not replace medical-grade antibiotic creams in cases of infection or contaminated wounds.
4. Staining and texture: Its red-brown color can stain clothing or bandages, and its thick, oily consistency may be uncomfortable for some users.
5. Storage and expiration: The ointment should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to preserve its herbal potency. Expired ointment may lose efficacy or develop an off odor.
6. Pregnancy and sensitive skin: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with very sensitive skin should consult a healthcare provider before use, as some herbs may have systemic effects.