Is it safe to soak traditional Chinese medicine in 75% alcohol for external use?
Feb 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, 75% alcohol can be used to soak traditional Chinese herbs for external use, but it should be used under the guidance of a physician. 75% alcohol has strong disinfectant properties and can effectively kill certain pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. At the same time, it can also serve as a solvent to help extract active ingredients from certain Chinese herbs, such as Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) and Carthamus tinctorius (Hong Hua).
Under normal circumstances, 75% alcohol can be used to soak traditional Chinese herbs for external use, but it should be used under the guidance of a physician. The detailed explanation is as follows:
75% alcohol has strong disinfectant properties and can effectively kill certain pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Additionally, it can act as a solvent to help extract active ingredients from certain Chinese herbs, such as Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) and Carthamus tinctorius (Hong Hua). After soaking, the solution can be applied externally to the skin surface by wiping or涂抹 on injured areas, wounds, or affected skin to achieve disinfectant, antibacterial, anti-itch, and anti-inflammatory effects.
If a patient's skin has wounds, ulcers, or extreme sensitivity, direct external application of Chinese herbs soaked in 75% alcohol may intensify skin irritation, leading to increased pain or risk of infection. In such cases, it is not recommended to use 75% alcohol-soaked herbs for external application.
In daily life, it is advisable to maintain good personal hygiene habits and avoid using substances that may cause skin irritation, which helps maintain healthy skin.
