The Legendary Zheng Gu Shui (Bone Setting Water): From Ancient Battlefields to Modern Muscle Relief
In the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), few remedies are as iconic and time-honored as Zheng Gu Shui, a potent herbal liniment known colloquially — and somewhat ominously — by its nickname Evil Bone (setting) Water. Behind the peculiar nickname is a rich tapestry of history, martial arts medicine, and even imperial intrigue.
Today, the legacy of this powerful formula lives on in handcrafted versions like Zheng Gu Zhi, created by Shen Alchemy in Australia, offering a clean, modern take on an ancient classic.
Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind Zheng Gu Shui — where it came from, how it earned its devilish nickname, and how it’s used today to support muscle and bone wellness in a modern context.
What Does "Zheng Gu Shui" Mean?
The literal translation of Zheng Gu Shui (正骨水) is “Bone-Setting Water.” In TCM, it refers to a liquid (shui) used to correct (zheng) or realign bones (gu), particularly in the treatment of trauma, injuries, and pain involving bones, joints, and connective tissue.
It was traditionally used by martial artists, soldiers, and bonesetters to help “set” injuries and support recovery by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and nourishing sinews.
From Martial Arts to Medicine
Historically, Zheng Gu Shui was part of Dit Da (跌打) or “fall-strike” medicine — a branch of TCM developed by martial artists and bonesetters to treat injuries sustained in combat and training. Whether it was bruising, dislocations, fractures, or sprains, Dit Da liniments like Zheng Gu Shui were essential for keeping fighters on their feet.
Commonly used herbs included:
Gu Sui Bu (Drynaria) – literally “mender of shattered bones”
Xu Duan (Dipsacus) – “restore what is broken”
Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) – blood-nourishing and pain-relieving
San Qi (Notoginseng) – stops bleeding, reduces swelling
Hong Hua (Safflower) – invigorates blood, dispels stasis
The base was typically high-proof alcohol, which both preserved the herbs and drove the active constituents deep into tissues when massaged into the skin.
Traditional Uses of Zheng Gu Shui
In classical TCM settings, Zheng Gu Shui has been used to support healing in:
Bone fractures and dislocations (post-realignment)
Tendon and ligament injuries
Sprains, strains, and joint swelling
Chronic musculoskeletal pain
Deep bruising and hematomas
Overuse injuries from training, farming, or manual labor
Its warming, blood-invigorating action made it especially useful for conditions rooted in Blood Stasis, Qi stagnation, and Cold-Damp obstruction, as described in TCM theory.
Modern-Day Revival: Artisan Formulations
Today, many commercial versions of Zheng Gu Shui exist — but some contain synthetic fillers, dyes, or petroleum derivatives, straying from the clean, natural formulations of the past.
In response, new brands have emerged that bring back the purity and potency of traditional Zheng Gu Shui, crafted with care and high-quality ingredients.
One of the most exciting modern versions is Zheng Gu Zhi by Shen Alchemy, made right here in Australia.
Zheng Gu Zhi by Shen Alchemy — Ancient Wisdom, Modern Craftsmanship
Zheng Gu Zhi (正骨止) is Shen Alchemy’s reimagined take on Bone Setting Water.
Handmade in small batches using traditional techniques, Zheng Gu Zhi is:
✅ Australian-made
✅ Infused with traditional herbs
✅ Powered by camphor and menthol for a penetrating sensation
✅ Free from synthetic dyes, parabens, or petrochemicals
✅ Suitable for muscles, joints, and connective tissue support
Unlike factory-produced versions, Shen Alchemy’s formula is slow-infused to preserve the spirit of Chinese herbalism — combining deep respect for tradition with modern skin-friendly standards.
Whether you’re an acupuncturist, athlete, or just someone dealing with chronic tightness or soreness, this liniment is a true ally.
How to Use Zheng Gu Zhi
Massage a small amount into the area of discomfort
Use 2–3 times daily for best results
Ideal for tight necks, sore backs, bruises, and overworked joints
Do not apply to broken skin
Where to Buy
Zheng Gu Zhi is available exclusively through Shen Alchemy’s official website.
In Summary
Zheng Gu Shui — or Bone Setting Water — is more than a muscle liniment. It’s a story. A legacy. A whispered tale of emperors, bonesetters, and centuries of herbal wisdom packed into a humble bottle.
Thanks to modern makers like Shen Alchemy, the spirit of this ancient remedy continues to evolve — clean, powerful, and made with integrity. Whether you’re treating yourself or your patients, Zheng Gu Zhi invites you to step into the lineage of healing that spans dynasties.
