How to Make Kung Fu Liniments That Work

Among the many components of Chinese kung fu is medicinal healing using the plants and herbs of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Kung fu students learn to make liniments and poultices to ease the aches and pains that come from self-defense sparring and exercises. The medicines are only for external injuries and are not to be taken internally. The best overall Chinese liniment to use for external injuries is called Dit Da Jow (Hit/Strike Lotion) and is designed to relieve pain and increase energy and blood flow. It is rubbed gently into the affected area in a circular motion.

Things You'll Need

  • Hit/Strike Lotion herbs (see Tips section)
  • Gallon-size glass bottle with rubber stopper or cork top
  • Chinese rice wine or inexpensive vodka
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place 12 g of each of the nine to 12 different herbs into the glass bottle.

    • 2

      Pour 3 L of rice wine or 2.2 L of vodka over the herbs. Seal the cap.

    • 3

      Turn the sealed bottle over several times. Place in a cool, dark place and allow to sit.

    • 4

      Turn over the bottle and shake it at least once per month for two to 12 months before use. The longer the formula steeps, the more potent it becomes.