The process of making traditional Chinese medicine ointment is divided into several steps: first, soaking the medicinal herbs, checking and separating the gum-like medicines, then placing the remaining herbs in a large clean sand pot, adding water to cover the herbs by about 10 centimeters, and soaking for 24 hours. Next, the process moves to boiling and simmering; first bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat for 1 hour, and continue simmering over very low heat for 3 hours. Filter to obtain the first batch of medicinal juice; repeat the boiling process two more times, combine all the medicinal juices, and let it settle and filter. Finally, the ointment collection process involves adding pre-steamed gum-like medicines and sugar to the clear ointment, simmering over low heat until thick enough to form threads or water droplets.
When boiling traditional Chinese medicine, the following points should be noted: use ceramic pots, sand pots, or stainless steel containers; soak the herbs in cold water for 1 to 2 hours in advance; cover the herbs with tap water; start with high heat, then switch to low heat; cover tightly during the initial boiling, and partially open for ventilation after boiling, some herbs require a tightly covered pot throughout; stir at appropriate times, most herbs require two boilings; control the boiling time for different medicinal formulas.
When taking traditional Chinese medicine, some foods should be avoided: including spicy ingredients (such as chili, garlic, ginger) to avoid affecting the effectiveness of the medicine; cold foods (such as cold drinks, ice cream) and seafood, as they may weaken the potency of the medicine or cause discomfort, especially for those with a cold constitution or treating cold-related diseases. Proper preparation of traditional Chinese medicine and attention to dietary taboos are key to ensuring efficacy and promoting recovery.
