Yunnan Baiyao is a proprietary Chinese herbal blend created in 1902 by herbalist Qu Huanzhang in Yunnan Province, China. Its formula remains a protected state secret, though Panax notoginseng (San Qi) is widely recognized as its primary active ingredient. It has been used for over a century across China and Southeast Asia as a front-line remedy for bleeding, bruising, pain, and wound recovery.

The formula works mainly by activating the body's own clotting pathways, helping platelets stick together and reducing the time it takes for bleeding to stop. It also appears to calm inflammation and improve local circulation, which helps bruising clear and swelling go down faster. Some research suggests it may have mild pain-relieving effects as well.

Capsules are the most common form for internal use, typically taken 2–4 times daily. The powder can be applied directly to cuts and wounds. The topical spray and aerosol are popular for sports injuries, bruises, and minor wounds. Patches and plasters are used for localized pain and swelling.

• Bleeding and wound care
• Bruising and swelling from injury
• Post-surgery recovery
• Nosebleeds
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Sports injuries and sprains
• Oral bleeding and gum health
• Cancer-related bleeding (palliative support)
• Gastrointestinal bleeding (adjunct)

• Excessive surgical blood loss when used as a perioperative adjunct
• Progression of gum disease-related bleeding with ongoing oral use

Yunnan Baiyao is a proprietary herbal formula — it is not found in any single food. Its primary active ingredient, Panax notoginseng (San Qi), is also not a common dietary food. To support the same goals of healthy blood flow, reduced inflammation, and faster tissue repair, focus on: (1) Foods rich in Vitamin K2 such as natto and aged cheeses, which support clotting factor activation. (2) Turmeric and ginger, which reduce inflammation similarly to how this formula works on swelling. (3) Leafy greens like spinach and kale for Vitamin K1 and iron to support blood health. (4) Bone broth for collagen precursors that support wound healing. (5) Beets, which support nitric oxide and healthy blood vessel tone. Avoid excessive alcohol and high-dose fish oil if you are using Yunnan Baiyao for bleeding control, as both can thin the blood further.

• Nausea or mild stomach upset (more common on an empty stomach)
• Allergic skin reaction (rash, itching) — more common with topical use
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (rare, at high doses)
• Excessive clotting if overused in people already prone to blood clots
• Potential uterine stimulation — avoid during pregnancy
• Rare reports of anaphylaxis with the injectable form (injectable form not available in most Western countries)

• Recommended daily: Capsules (250–500 mg each): 1–2 capsules, 2–4 times per day (manufacturer standard is 0.25–0.5 g per dose, up to 4 times daily). The red Baoxian emergency pill is taken only once in cases of severe trauma and should not be repeated within 24 hours. Topical powder: apply a thin layer directly to wound and cover. Topical spray: apply 2–3 times daily to affected area.
• Best time of day: Spread doses evenly through the day; often taken morning, midday, and evening with meals.
• With or without food: Take with warm water and food or shortly after eating to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
• Time to effect: Topical bleeding control: within minutes. Bruising and swelling: noticeable improvement within 1–3 days. Internal healing support: 5–14 days for full effect.
• How long to take it: For acute injury or wound healing: use for 5–14 days as needed. For chronic conditions such as heavy periods or gum health: consult a TCM practitioner for guidance; long-term continuous use beyond 4 weeks without professional guidance is not recommended. Take a break of at least 1–2 weeks between courses.