News

Ingredient

Traditional Role in TCM

Modern Research Direction

Angelica sinensis (当歸)

Nourish and activate blood

Anti-inflammatory, circulation

Myrrh (沒藥)

Dispel blood stasis, relieve pain

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic

Dragon's Blood Resin (血竭)

Activate blood, stop bleeding, promote healing

Wound healing, anti-inflammatory

Prepared Aconite Root (制附子)

Expel wind-cold, relieve pain

Analgesic properties when processed

Ligusticum chuanxiong (川芎)

Move Qi and blood, relieve pain

Vasodilatory, microcirculation

Menthol + Wintergreen Oil

Penetration enhancers, cooling

Improve dermal absorption

Product Type

How It Works

Best For

Cooling patch (IcyHot, Salonpas)

Surface sensation overrides pain perception

Immediate temporary relief

NSAID gel (Voltaren)

Reduces local inflammation

Acute inflammatory phase

Oral NSAIDs (ibuprofen)

Systemic anti-inflammatory

Acute pain management

Wei Yi An (TCM black balm)

Improves local circulation, supports tissue repair

Chronic soft tissue recovery — where other options have plateaued

Q1

What makes Wei Yi An different from regular black herbal plasters sold at Asian grocery stores?

A

Most black herbal plasters available in Asian grocery stores are classified as cosmetics or general wellness products — they are not regulated as pharmaceutical products and do not require ingredient disclosure or quality testing. Wei Yi An is a licensed pharmaceutical product approved by Taiwan's Department of Health (DOH Mfg. No. 015239), manufactured under GMP standards with complete ingredient disclosure, batch-by-batch quality testing, and pharmacist supervision. The regulatory difference is significant.

Q2

Does Wei Yi An smell strong? Will it stain my clothes?

A

Wei Yi An has a distinct medicinal herbal scent from the menthol and traditional herbs — similar to what you might expect from a TCM formulation. It is not overwhelming, but it is noticeable. Regarding staining: when applied correctly using the patch method (spread on non-woven fabric with a 1cm border, covered with gauze), transfer to clothing is minimal. Direct skin rubbing without a patch cover carries more risk of transfer to fabric. Dark coloured or older clothing is recommended during the first few uses until you are familiar with the application method.

Q3

I have sensitive skin. Can I use Wei Yi An?

A

People with sensitive skin can often use Wei Yi An successfully with the right preparation. Before full use: apply a small amount to the inner wrist, cover with gauze, and wait 24 hours. If no redness, itching, or irritation occurs, proceed with normal application. If you have known allergies to any of the listed ingredients (particularly menthol, camphor, or sesame oil), do not use this product. Our pharmacist can advise on skin sensitivity concerns — free consultation available before purchase.

Q4

Can I use Wei Yi An if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

A

Wei Yi An contains several potent TCM herbs including Prepared Aconite Root and other herbs that are traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy. We do not recommend use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, consult our pharmacist directly with your specific situation before use. Safety during these periods has not been established, and we always recommend a cautious approach. Contact us via WhatsApp for free pharmacist guidance.

Q5

How is Wei Yi An different from Su Yi An (the green herbal balm)?

A

Both are TAIYUN TCM topical ointments but for different stages and types of pain. Su Yi An (green balm, Wan Ying Gao modified) uses menthol and cooling herbs for immediate cooling relief — suited for acute sprains in recovery, muscle soreness, and users who prefer a lighter cooling feel. Wei Yi An (black ointment, Wan Ning Gao modified) is a concentrated formula with deep-penetrating blood-activating herbs — suited for chronic soft tissue conditions, tendonitis, old injuries, and pain that has plateaued with surface treatments. Not sure which fits your situation? Our pharmacist will advise for free.

Q6

I'm in the US / UK / Australia / Malaysia / Singapore. Can I order Wei Yi An?

A

Yes — TAIYUN Pharmaceutical accepts international orders from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and other countries. Due to Taiwan's pharmaceutical regulations, Wei Yi An is not available on Amazon, eBay, or other retail platforms. To order: contact our pharmacist via WhatsApp (https://wa.me/message/IOR3XAXSPBKIA1) or Line (@typhd) for a free pre-purchase consultation. Our pharmacist will confirm suitability for your condition before processing your order.

Q7

How much Wei Yi An should I order? How long does one can last?

A

Wei Yi An comes in 1.2 kg cans. With daily patch application (a coin-sized amount per application), one can typically lasts 3–6 months depending on the size of the area being treated. For a single small joint like an elbow, closer to 6 months. For a larger area like the lower back, closer to 3 months. For international orders, we typically recommend starting with one can to confirm suitability before ordering in larger quantity. Our pharmacist can give a more specific estimate based on your condition and application area.

Q8

What is Wan Ning Gao? Is it the same as Wei Yi An?

A

Wan Ning Gao (萬寧膏) is a classical Taiwanese TCM formula with centuries of use in martial arts schools for chronic soft tissue injuries and deep musculoskeletal pain. Wei Yi An is TAIYUN's modern reformulation of Wan Ning Gao — the herbal core is preserved from the classical formula, but the texture has been improved to a soft, ready-to-use paste that works at room temperature (no heating required). Think of Wei Yi An as Wan Ning Gao upgraded for modern everyday use.