Ligusticum (Chuanxiong) External Herb Pouch

Why people use this poultice

Nourilo’s sister in Australia developed plantar fasciitis — a painful inflammation of the thick band of tissue running along the sole of the foot. She had been on Western medication for over two weeks with little improvement; every step was a struggle. Nourilo first suggested warm ginger footbaths to improve circulation, and gentle tapping of the affected area, but the results were modest. Then he came across a method introduced by a well-known health writer, using shredded ligusticum root in a tea-bag pouch placed directly on the painful area. With nothing to lose, his sister tried it. After just two days, the pain had eased enough that she walked around a shopping centre for a full hour without discomfort. A few more days of the same application and the pain was gone entirely. This outcome surprised and delighted them both — and that is why Nourilo is sharing it here. Ligusticum chuanxiong is a root herb long used in Chinese medicine for activating blood circulation, moving stagnant qi, dispelling wind, and relieving pain. The volatile aromatic compounds it contains are released gradually by body heat and pressure, penetrating the tissue directly where the pouch rests.

Method

1. Using scissors, cut the ligusticum root into thin strips (not powder — strips lie flat better).
2. Divide the strips evenly between two tea-bag pouches, spreading them flat inside.
3. Seal or fold the pouches closed.
4. Place a pouch directly against the painful area of the heel or sole; secure with tape.
5. Put on a sock over the top to keep the pouch in place and allow free movement.
6. Wear for up to 10 hours per day. Replace with a fresh pouch the next day.
7. Use for at least 3 consecutive days to assess the effect.

Nourilo’s Tips

No heat is required — body warmth and the natural pressure of walking activate the herb’s compounds. The sock holds the pouch in place, so you can move around freely during the day. If you are using this for lower back pain, position the pouch over the painful area and apply a warm-water bottle on top of it — warm heat twice a day enhances the effect. Keep up for at least 3 days to judge whether it helps.