The source is from the refined product of the natural ore Sulphur. The medicinal material is mainly produced in Shanxi, Shandong and Henan provinces. For oral use, the clean sulfur is boiled with bean curd until the bean curd shows a blackish-green color, then remove the bean curd and dry it in the shade. It is used in powder form.

Sour in flavor, warm in nature, toxic and attributive to the kidney and large intestine meridians.

Clear away toxic materials, kill parasites when externally used; strengthen yang to relax bowel when used orally.

1. It can be used to treat scabies, eczema and alleviate itching. In treating scabies, mixed with sesame oil, its powder can be applied alone to the local area, or its ex-tract is used externally. Together with Qiandan (Plumbum Preparatium), it is pounded into powder for all tineas of dry or damp type. In treating pruritus vulvae caused by dampness, it can be used together with Shechuangzi ( Fructus Cnidii ) and Mingfan (Alumen), which are decocted for washing.

2. It is used for syndromes caused by insufficiency of kidney-yang and deficiency and cold of the lower energizer. For cold dyspnea due to kidney-deficienty failing to receive qi, it is often used together with Fuzi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata ) , and Rougui (Cortex Cinnamomi), such as Heixi Dan (Pill). It is often used in combination with Lurong (Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum), Buguzhi ( Fructus Psoraleae) for impotence, frequent micturition, and pain of the loin and knees, etc.

3. It is often used together with Banxia (Rhizoma Pinelliae), such as in Banliu Wan (Pill), to treat the elder's constipation due to deficiency and cold.

For external application, its powder can be applied to the local area or mixed with oil, and the amount should be proper. For oral administration, 1-3 g is taken after made into pills or powder.  

It is contraindicated in those with deficiency of yin and hyperactivity of fire, or pregnant women.