As Steam Soak:
Place herb pack in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Immediately place herb pack in appropriate basin and hold affected limb over the steaming liquid, drape towel over the limb to keep in steam. When decoction cools, bathe limb in the liquid, immersing the traumatized area if possible. Do this 2 times per day. To enhance the effects of the soak, add 2 tablespoons of rice wine to the water at the beginning of the steam. Liquid can be re-used and re-heated for up to 3-4 days.

As a Compress:
When it is not possible to soak a traumatized area such as the shoulder you will need to use a compress. Cook the pouch in 2 cups of water, bring to a boil and simmer for 25 minutes. Remove the bag and as soon as it has cooled enough to place on the skin, place it over the traumatized area, covering with a hot pack or hot water bottle to keep in heat. Leave on for about 25 minutes. You can also add 2 tablespoons of rice wine to the hot water before taking out the pouch to enhance the effects.

Soaks and compresses penetrate the tissues and leave them open for a while after treatment. It is therefore important to keep the area covered after application to avoid invasion of wind and cold. 

Email me if you have questions.

To your Health!

Yamin Chehin L.Ac; Dip O.M