Xingxiao Wan

Xingxiao Wan is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula primarily composed of Frankincense (乳香), Myrrh (没药), Realgar (雄黄), and Musk (麝香). Traditionally, it is used to invigorate blood, resolve phlegm, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain. Its primary indications include carbuncles, swellings, and toxic sores that are hard, painful, and have not yet suppurated, as well as conditions involving visceral toxic heat and qi and blood stagnation. Modern pharmacological understanding suggests that Xingxiao Wan may dilate blood vessels, reduce blood viscosity, improve microcirculation, and possess analgesic, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. It has been applied in modern contexts for various cancers, including skin, colorectal, cervical, esophageal, gastric, and liver cancers, particularly when accompanied by specific TCM diagnostic signs like a dark tongue and strong pulse. It is also used for conditions such as intestinal abscess, lung abscess, peritonitis, skin infection, breast cancer, mastitis, infarction, infectious colitis, and osteomyelitis. The drug is typically administered orally, often with warm yellow wine or warm water. Realgar is noted for its toxicity, and musk is derived from an endangered species, leading to some formulations using artificial musk or being contraindicated in certain situations, such as pregnancy.

Other names

醒消丸Awake and Disperse Pill