Toad Ointment，*New Compilation of Proven Formulas*, Volume 11.，For all types of unexplained swellings and abscesses, boils of any size, or leg swelling caused by dampness; for adults and children suffering from food stagnation, abdominal masses, malnutrition, or emaciation with a distended abdomen.
Toad Ointment
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All references in this article to TCM syndrome differentiation, herbal medicines, teas, and decoctions are intended to promote TCM culture and are provided solely for educational and reference purposes.
Formulas Name : Toad Ointment
Chinese Name : 虾蟆膏
Drug Formulation
10 liang of genuine stone-ground sesame oil, 3 chi 3 cun of locust tree branches (green, plump, and tender), 4 liang of lead powder (must be thoroughly sun-dried and sifted before use), and 1 large leprous toad (preferably with many lesions; use 2 small ones if necessary; must be collected several months in advance, air-dried in the shade; do not use those with red eyes or an abdomen lacking the “eight-character” pattern).
Source
*New Compilation of Proven Formulas*, Volume 11.
Processing
Prepare at noon on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month; preparation at other times is also acceptable. First, bring the sesame oil to a rolling boil, then immediately add the toad and boil until charred. Skim off the residue—it must be completely removed, otherwise the ointment will cause pain when applied. Next, add the locust tree branches and boil until charred; these must also be completely skimmed off. Then add the lead powder, stir gently with two large locust tree branches, and simmer over low heat,until the mixture reaches the consistency where a drop of liquid forms a bead. Remove from heat and store in a porcelain container.
Benefits
For all types of unexplained swellings and abscesses, boils of any size, or leg swelling caused by dampness; for adults and children suffering from food stagnation, abdominal masses, malnutrition, or emaciation with a distended abdomen.
Instructions for Use
Apply as a poultice as needed. For all types of unexplained swellings and abscesses, boils of any size, or leg swelling caused by dampness, as well as abdominal masses, apply the poultice to the affected area. For adults and children suffering from food stagnation, malnutrition, or emaciation with a distended abdomen, apply the poultice above the navel.
Copyright: Excerpt from *New Compilation of Proven Formulas*, Volume 11., Copyright belongs to the Original Author and all original sources, This article was shared by DeDe on August 31, 2026, Please credit the source and include a link to the original article when reposting.
Terminology Proofreading: [Cheng Bo] | August 31, 2026 Reviewed by: [Wang Zhongxiang, Associate Chief TCM Physician (China)] | August 31, 2026
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Toad Ointment,For all types of unexplained swellings and abscesses, boils of any size, or leg swelling caused by dampness; for adults and children suffering from food stagnation, abdominal masses, malnutrition, or emaciation with a distended abdomen.