Natural Recovery Oils and Ointments (油和軟膏)

Seventy medicated oils, balms and creams — the topical half of the shop. It includes the martial-arts liniments (Zheng Gu Shui, Kung Fu Oil, Dit Da Jow), the household oils that most Chinese-Australian families keep in a drawer (White Flower, Axe Brand, Hoe Hin), and the branded ointments from Mayinglong, Yunnan Baiyao and 999.

Choosing one

Traditionally these fall into warming and cooling groups, and the choice depends on whether the complaint is recent or long-standing. Liniments are for rubbing in; balms are for a small area; medicated oils are often used a drop at a time.

Several are strongly scented and most are for external use only — check the label, and ask if you are buying for a child.

Traditional use information is provided for general education only and is not medical advice. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified practitioner before use, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or managing a health condition.