Sanhuang Ointment

Sanhuang Ointment, also known as Sanhuang Gao (三黄膏), is a traditional Chinese medicine preparation used topically for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. Its name, meaning 'three yellows,' refers to its primary herbal ingredients: Coptidis Rhizoma (Huang Lian, 黄连), Scutellariae Radix (Huang Qin, 黄芩), and Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (Huang Bai, 黄柏). [2, 4, 7] Some formulations may also include other herbs like Gardenia Fructus (Zhi Zi, 栀子). [2, 3, 7] The ointment is traditionally used for conditions characterized by heat, swelling, and pain, such as early-stage boils and sores, mild burns, traumatic injuries, and hemorrhoids. [2, 5, 7, 12] Research indicates that its mechanism of action involves multiple pathways, including the inhibition of the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway to reduce inflammation, particularly in the context of bacterial infections like MRSA. [4, 8] It has also been shown to regulate pain-related genes and vascular growth factors to alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms. [12]

Brand names

San Huang GaoHerbal Ice Poultice

Other names

三黄软膏Sanhuang Gao三黄膏