Zheng Gu Shui Spray

Zheng Gu Shui Spray is a medicated topical liniment in a spray format, based on the long-established Chinese formula Zheng Gu Shui from Yulin Pharmaceutical of Guangxi, China. The name roughly translates as “bone-setting liquid”, reflecting its traditional association with bumps, bruises, sprains and strains. It is intended for external use on intact skin only and must never be swallowed.

The Zheng Gu Shui formula combines camphor and menthol with a blend of traditional Chinese herbal ingredients in a liquid base. Camphor and menthol are well-known counter-irritants that produce a cooling, then warming, sensation on the skin. Because the full herbal composition is complex, customers should read the complete ingredient list printed on the product packaging, particularly if they have known allergies or sensitive skin.

The spray format allows a thin, even layer of liquid to be applied over the affected area without pouring, which can be more convenient than the classic bottle for larger areas such as the back, shoulders or calves. DoctorOnCall lists this product in a 60ml pack. As with all camphor-containing products, it should be kept well out of reach of children and used only as directed on the label.

Shake gently if indicated on the label. Hold the spray a short distance from the skin and spray a thin layer onto the painful or bruised area of intact skin, then gently massage until absorbed. Wash your hands thoroughly after use unless the hands are the area being treated.

Do not spray onto broken, cut, grazed or irritated skin, and keep the spray away from the eyes, nose, mouth and other mucous membranes. Do not spray near the face, do not inhale the mist, and do not cover the treated area with a tight or heat-retaining bandage unless the label directs otherwise. For external use only; never swallow.

Apply to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily, or as stated on the current product label. Do not exceed the frequency stated on the label and avoid applying large amounts over wide areas of skin.

If symptoms have not improved after a few days of use, or if they get worse, stop using the product and consult a doctor or pharmacist. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it on children, and do not use it on infants or young children unless specifically advised.

Refer to the expiry date printed on the product packaging, and do not use the product after this date.

Store in a cool, dry place below the temperature stated on the label, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap or nozzle closed when not in use. As the product is a spray liquid, keep it away from open flames and sources of ignition. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

• Common: Temporary warming, cooling, tingling or mild stinging sensation at the application site.
• Common: Mild redness or skin irritation where the spray is applied.
• Uncommon: Itching, rash or dryness of the skin, particularly with frequent use or on sensitive skin.
• Serious: Allergic reactions such as widespread rash, blistering, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing. Stop use and seek medical help immediately.
• Serious: Camphor poisoning if the liquid is swallowed or used excessively, which can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion and seizures, particularly in children. Seek emergency medical care straight away.

• Do not use if you are allergic to camphor, menthol or any other ingredient in the product.
• Do not apply to broken, wounded, burnt or infected skin, or to areas with eczema or dermatitis.
• Do not use in or near the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or on other mucous membranes.
• Not to be taken by mouth under any circumstances.
• Do not use during pregnancy unless a doctor has specifically advised it.
• Do not use on infants and young children unless advised by a doctor.

• No clinically significant interactions with oral medicines are well documented for topical use as directed.
• Avoid applying other topical rubs, liniments, heat patches or creams to the same area at the same time, as combining products can increase skin irritation and the total amount of camphor or menthol applied.
• Do not use a heating pad or hot compress over the treated area, as heat may increase absorption and the risk of skin irritation or burns.
• If you use any medicated creams or other treatments on the same area, ask a pharmacist before combining them.

• Test on a small patch of skin first if you have sensitive skin or are using the product for the first time.
• For a fresh sprain or bruise, rest the area and use a cold compress first, and seek medical advice if there is severe pain or swelling.
• Spray in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in the mist.
• Wash your hands after application so the liquid does not reach your eyes or mouth.
• Store the bottle out of children’s reach, as accidental swallowing of camphor products is dangerous.
• Stop using it and see a doctor if pain persists for more than a few days.

Precautions: For external use only. Use only on intact skin and avoid the eyes, mouth and mucous membranes. Keep out of reach of children, as swallowing camphor-containing liquids can cause serious poisoning. Do not use on infants or young children, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless advised by a doctor. People with sensitive skin, a history of skin allergies, epilepsy or a history of seizures should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical attention if you suspect a fracture or dislocation, if there is severe pain, marked swelling, deformity, numbness or inability to move or bear weight, or if symptoms do not improve after a few days. Stop using the spray and seek help if you develop a rash, blistering or signs of an allergic reaction. If the product is swallowed, seek emergency care immediately.