What Chinese herbal medicines have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects?

There are numerous types of traditional Chinese medicines with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, mainly classified into several categories. Heat-clearing and detoxifying herbs, such as honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), forsythia, isatis leaf, and isatis root, are bitter and cold in nature. They are used to treat various heat-toxin conditions, including boils, carbuncles, and erysipelas, and exhibit inhibitory effects against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Herbs that eliminate toxins, kill parasites, and relieve itching—such as realgar and sulfur—have functions of detoxification, wound healing, parasite elimination, and itch relief, effectively killing or inhibiting pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Detoxifying and tissue-regenerating herbs, such as red powder (mercuric oxide) and lead powder, can inhibit or destroy various bacteria and dermatophytic fungi; however, due to their high toxicity, they are suitable only for external use. In clinical practice, these traditional Chinese medicines should be carefully selected and used according to specific conditions and under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner.