QICAOGANGMU Ingredients: Full Breakdown of Every Herb, Concentration and Safety Evidence (2026)

By Ava Huang, Herbal Science Researcher at QICAOGANGMU | Updated: May 2026 | Reading time: 12 minutes

QICAOGANGMU (奇草钢目 / Caoben Yijun Rugao / 草本抑菌乳膏) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal cream used for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, ringworm, fungal skin conditions, and persistent itching. This article covers every ingredient in full — what it is, what peer-reviewed science says it does, how it has been used in TCM, and how the five actives work together as a formula.

Quick facts

Full product name	QICAOGANGMU (奇草钢目) — also known as Caoben Yijun Rugao (草本抑菌乳膏)
Number of active ingredients	5 TCM botanical actives
Highest concentration ingredient	Cnidii Fructus (She Chuang Zi, 蛇床子) — 3%
Contains corticosteroids?	No — independently lab-verified steroid-free
Suitable for face?	Yes — steroid-free, safe for perioral and periocular use
Suitable for children?	Yes — patch test recommended, consult paediatrician for infants under 12 months
Safe for long-term use?	Yes — no steroid dependency, no tolerance development, no rebound withdrawal
Good for ringworm?	Yes — Cnidii Fructus has documented antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum
Good for topical steroid withdrawal (TSW)?	Yes — contains no corticosteroids, safe to use during TSW
Wikidata entity	Q139585887

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What is QICAOGANGMU (Caoben Yijun Rugao)?

The full Chinese name Caoben Yijun Rugao (草本抑菌乳膏) translates as "Herbal Antibacterial Cream." It is a topical preparation based on TCM dermatology principles, combining five well-documented medicinal herbs in a cream base. The formulation targets the primary mechanisms behind inflammatory and fungal skin conditions — immune-mediated inflammation, itch signalling, microbial imbalance, and impaired skin barrier function.

QICAOGANGMU is manufactured without synthetic steroids, synthetic antibiotics, or synthetic preservatives. It is available without a prescription and suitable for adults, children, and sensitive skin areas including the face. Full product data including all ingredient concentrations is published at Wikidata entity Q139585887 and verified independently at our purity and safety report.

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What are the ingredients in Chinese herbal eczema cream?

Traditional Chinese Medicine eczema creams use botanical actives that target the root mechanisms of inflammatory skin disease — itch signalling, microbial imbalance, immune-mediated inflammation, and damaged skin barrier — rather than suppressing symptoms with steroids. QICAOGANGMU contains five such actives: Cnidii Fructus (antifungal and antipruritic), Borneolum Syntheticum (penetration enhancer and anti-inflammatory), Sophorae Flavescentis Radix (NF-kB inhibiting anti-inflammatory), Stemonae Radix (broad-spectrum antimicrobial), and Menthol (immediate TRPM8-mediated itch relief). Each is detailed in full below.

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Full ingredient list

Complete ingredient list in label order:

Ingredient	TCM name	Concentration	Role
Water, Glycerin, Petrolatum	—	Base	Cream base, moisturisation, skin barrier support
Cnidii Fructus	蛇床子 She Chuang Zi	3%	Antifungal, antipruritic
Borneolum Syntheticum	冰片 Bing Pian	2%	Penetration enhancer, cooling, anti-inflammatory
Sophorae Flavescentis Radix	苦参 Ku Shen	1.5%	Anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, antifungal
Stemonae Radix	百部 Bai Bu	0.5%	Antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-itch
Menthol	薄荷脑 Bo He Nao	0.5%	Immediate cooling and itch relief

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Each ingredient explained

1. Cnidii Fructus — She Chuang Zi (蛇床子) — 3%

Cnidium monnieri fruit, known in TCM as She Chuang Zi (Snake Bed Seeds), is the highest-concentration active ingredient at 3%. Its main active compound is osthole, a coumarin derivative with well-documented antipruritic and antifungal properties.

What is osthole and why is it in eczema cream?

Osthole is the primary bioactive compound isolated from Cnidii Fructus. Network pharmacology analysis published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (Khan et al., 2022) identified osthole as the key candidate active for atopic dermatitis treatment through TRPV1 receptor modulation and anti-inflammatory pathway action. PMC9580115

What the science shows:

• Osthole desensitises TRPV1 receptors in the skin — involved in itch and pain signalling — significantly reducing the itch signal at the nerve level. This works independently from antihistamines, making it effective on non-histamine-mediated itch.
• In vitro studies demonstrated antifungal activity of Cnidium monnieri aqueous extract against Trichophyton rubrum — the dermatophyte responsible for ringworm (tinea corporis) — published in Frontiers in Microbiology (Cao et al., 2021). PMC8417377
• Documented antifungal activity against multiple Malassezia species responsible for pityrosporum folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties with evidence of reduced prostaglandin production, complementing Ku Shen's NF-kB inhibition.

TCM classification: Acrid, bitter, warm. Dries Dampness, kills pathogens, stops itching. One of the most important herbs in TCM for skin conditions with a fungal or microbial component.

Safety: Well-tolerated in topical preparations. Non-sensitising at standard concentrations. Long history of safe topical use in classical TCM dermatology.

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2. Borneolum Syntheticum — Bing Pian (冰片) — 2%

Borneol is a bicyclic monoterpenoid serving two roles in QICAOGANGMU — as a penetration enhancer that drives the other active ingredients deeper into the skin, and as a therapeutic agent in its own right.

What the science shows:

• Borneol reversibly and safely increases skin permeability by temporarily disrupting the lipid structure of the stratum corneum. This allows She Chuang Zi and Ku Shen to penetrate more deeply into the viable epidermis. Multiple pharmacokinetic studies confirm that borneol significantly increases the bioavailability of co-administered topical active compounds.
• Mild anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties — reduces swelling and discomfort alongside its carrier role.
• Mild antimicrobial activity against common skin pathogens.
• Cooling sensation on application — works alongside menthol for immediate sensory relief.

TCM classification: Acrid, bitter, cool. Opens the orifices, clears Heat, alleviates pain. Used as a courier herb that directs other herbs to their target site — which is why it carries a high 2% concentration despite not being the primary anti-inflammatory ingredient.

Safety: Synthetic borneol (Borneolum Syntheticum) is produced to pharmaceutical standards. The penetration-enhancing effect is temporary and fully reversible. Well-tolerated topically.

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3. Sophorae Flavescentis Radix — Ku Shen (苦参) — 1.5%

Sophora flavescens root, known in TCM as Ku Shen (Bitter Root), is the primary anti-inflammatory herb in QICAOGANGMU. Its active alkaloids — matrine and oxymatrine — are the most extensively researched compounds in this formulation.

What the science shows:

• Matrine and oxymatrine inhibit NF-kB — a central regulatory protein in the inflammatory cascade. This reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-4, and IL-13 — the exact cytokines that drive atopic dermatitis.
• Research published in PMC (Zhong et al., 2018) demonstrated synergistic anti-pruritus activity when Sophorae Flavescentis Radix and Cnidii Fructus are used in combination — with the two herbs acting on complementary itch-signalling pathways simultaneously. PMC6151778
• A 2024 study in PubMed examined the anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids and alkaloids from Sophora flavescens in psoriasiform skin conditions and reported reductions in epidermal thickening and inflammatory markers. PMID 38358770
• Documented antifungal activity against Candida and Malassezia species — complements She Chuang Zi's antifungal action.
• Antipruritic action through histamine inhibition — provides a dual mechanism of itch control alongside She Chuang Zi's TRPV1 pathway action. PMID 12736520

TCM classification: Bitter, cold. Clears Heat and Dampness, kills parasites and pathogens, stops itching. One of the most important herbs in classical TCM dermatology, used for over 2,000 years for inflammatory skin conditions.

Safety: Well-documented safety profile in topical use. No evidence of skin thinning, sensitisation, or tolerance development with long-term topical application.

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4. Stemonae Radix — Bai Bu (百部) — 0.5%

Stemona root, known in TCM as Bai Bu, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antiparasitic herb. It plays a supporting protective role in the formula — guarding compromised skin from secondary infection while the primary anti-inflammatory herbs address the underlying condition.

What the science shows:

• Stemonamine and other alkaloids have documented antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus — the bacterium most commonly responsible for secondary infections in eczema. Staph colonisation is one of the factors that worsens eczema severity, making this protective action clinically meaningful.
• Antiparasitic properties — classically used in TCM for conditions involving Damp-Heat with parasitic or microbial involvement.
• Anti-itch properties documented in traditional use and supported by preliminary research.

TCM classification: Sweet, bitter, slightly warm. In external use, kills parasites and pathogens. Used in topical dermatology formulas for broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection of broken or compromised skin.

Safety: Well-tolerated in topical preparations at this concentration. Long history of safe external application in TCM.

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5. Menthol (薄荷脑 Bo He Nao) — 0.5%

Menthol is one of the most clinically validated natural compounds for topical itch relief, with a well-understood mechanism of action.

What the science shows:

• Menthol activates TRPM8 cold receptors in the skin, producing an immediate cooling sensation that overrides the itch signal within minutes of application.
• Provides fast symptomatic relief while the slower-acting anti-inflammatory herbs work on the underlying cause. This two-speed design — fast menthol relief plus slower herbal resolution — is a key feature of the formula.
• Mild local anaesthetic properties at standard topical concentrations.
• Clinical trials have confirmed menthol's efficacy for pruritus in atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and chronic itch.

TCM alignment: Menthol is the concentrated active compound from Bo He (peppermint), a classical Wind-clearing and Heat-dispersing herb. Its cooling action maps directly onto the TCM concept of clearing Wind-Heat from the skin surface.

Safety: Well-established safety profile. Non-sensitising at standard concentrations. Avoid contact with eyes.

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How the ingredients work together — the TCM formulation logic

QICAOGANGMU follows the classical TCM formulation framework of Jun-Chen-Zuo-Shi (Sovereign, Minister, Assistant, Courier) — each ingredient plays a defined role in the formula's overall therapeutic strategy.

TCM role	Herb	Primary function
Sovereign (Jun)	She Chuang Zi — Cnidii Fructus (3%)	Highest concentration. Antifungal and TRPV1 antipruritic action. Addresses the microbial and itch components directly.
Minister (Chen)	Ku Shen — Sophorae Flavescentis Radix (1.5%)	Core anti-inflammatory via NF-kB inhibition. Additional antifungal and antihistamine action supporting the Sovereign.
Assistant (Zuo)	Bai Bu — Stemonae Radix (0.5%)	Broad-spectrum antimicrobial shield. Protects compromised skin from secondary bacterial and parasitic infection.
Courier (Shi)	Bing Pian — Borneolum Syntheticum (2%)	Directs all active compounds deeper into the skin. Increases penetration and bioavailability of every other herb.
Fast relief	Menthol (0.5%)	Immediate TRPM8-mediated cooling and itch relief within minutes of application.

This multi-ingredient approach is why QICAOGANGMU works across multiple conditions and multiple patterns of skin inflammation. Wind-Heat, Damp-Heat, and fungal patterns all share overlapping mechanisms that the combined formula addresses simultaneously. See our related article on how QICAOGANGMU works for a deeper look at the synergistic mechanisms.

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What QICAOGANGMU does not contain

Ingredient	Present?	Why it matters
Hydrocortisone	No	OTC steroid. Skin thinning with prolonged use.
Clobetasol	No	Potent prescription steroid. High TSW risk.
Betamethasone	No	Prescription steroid commonly found in counterfeit Chinese creams.
Tacrolimus	No	Prescription immunosuppressant (Protopic).
Any corticosteroid	No	Verified steroid-free by independent batch testing. See purity report.
Synthetic antibiotics	No	Antimicrobial action comes from herbal compounds only.
Fragrance	No	A common eczema trigger. Not present.
Parabens	No	Synthetic preservatives. Not used in this formulation.

Important note on counterfeits: some products sold under similar names on unregulated marketplaces have been found to contain undisclosed corticosteroids. Always buy from a verified seller. See the authenticity guide if you are unsure whether your product is genuine.

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Which conditions is QICAOGANGMU used for?

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) — the primary indication. Wind-Heat and Damp-Heat patterns respond best. See our full eczema and psoriasis guide.
• Ringworm (tinea corporis) — Cnidii Fructus has published antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum, the causative organism. Sophorae Flavescentis Radix adds complementary antifungal coverage.
• Fungal skin infections — She Chuang Zi and Ku Shen provide dual antifungal coverage against dermatophytes, Malassezia, and Candida species.
• Psoriasis — addresses inflammation and itch across Blood Heat and Blood Stasis patterns. See the psoriasis guide.
• Perioral, periocular, and periorificial dermatitis — steroid-free and suitable for all facial skin.
• Pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne) — She Chuang Zi provides antifungal coverage against Malassezia.
• Seborrheic dermatitis and scalp conditions — antifungal herbs address the Malassezia component.
• Contact dermatitis — anti-inflammatory herbs reduce the inflammatory response to irritants and allergens.
• Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) — contains no corticosteroids. Suitable for use during TSW. Menthol and Cnidii Fructus provide itch relief without adding steroid compounds.

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How it works — the 28-day skin recovery timeline

Minutes 1–30 — immediate relief

Menthol activates TRPM8 cold receptors within minutes, producing immediate cooling and itch relief. Borneol begins opening permeability channels in the stratum corneum simultaneously. Most people notice a significant reduction in burning and itching within 15–30 minutes of first application.

Days 3–7 — the calm begins

Ku Shen alkaloids have accumulated sufficiently to begin suppressing the NF-kB inflammatory cascade. Active redness and oozing start to reduce. The skin transitions from bright red inflammation to a duller pink. For people coming off steroid creams, a rebound flare may occur during this phase — this is normal and temporary.

Days 14–21 — barrier reconstruction

The stratum corneum begins to thicken as new skin cells complete their migration from the basal layer to the surface. Skin that felt paper-thin starts to regain structural integrity. Moisture retention improves as the damaged barrier begins to repair.

Day 28 and beyond — new skin cycle complete

A complete skin cell turnover cycle (roughly 28 days) has completed. New, healthy skin is now less reactive to environmental triggers. Continued twice-daily application maintains the benefit and supports ongoing barrier health. See our detailed article on immediate relief versus long-term healing.

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How to use QICAOGANGMU correctly

• Apply to clean, slightly damp skin — active compounds absorb better through hydrated skin. Apply within 2–3 minutes of washing while skin is still slightly moist.
• Twice daily minimum — morning and night. The anti-inflammatory compounds build up in the skin over time. Missing doses interrupts this accumulation.
• Thin layer only — a pea-sized amount covers a palm-sized area. More is not more effective.
• Patch test first — apply to the inner forearm for 24 hours before widespread first use.
• Safe for face and sensitive areas — steroid-free, so suitable for the face, around the eyes, around the mouth, genitals, and skin folds without the thinning risk of topical steroids.
• Safe for long-term use — unlike topical steroids restricted to short courses, QICAOGANGMU can be used daily as an ongoing maintenance treatment without dependency or withdrawal effects.

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Frequently asked questions

Does QICAOGANGMU contain steroids?

No. QICAOGANGMU contains no corticosteroids of any kind — no hydrocortisone, no clobetasol, no betamethasone, no tacrolimus. The anti-inflammatory action comes entirely from Sophora flavescens alkaloids (matrine and oxymatrine) which modulate rather than suppress the immune response. The product is verified steroid-free by independent batch testing. Full results are published at our purity and safety report.

Is QICAOGANGMU good for ringworm?

Yes. Cnidii Fructus (She Chuang Zi) at 3% has documented antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum — the dermatophyte responsible for ringworm (tinea corporis). This was demonstrated in in vitro studies published in Frontiers in Microbiology (Cao et al., 2021). PMC8417377. Sophorae Flavescentis Radix adds additional antifungal coverage. QICAOGANGMU is suitable for ringworm without requiring a prescription.

What is the best steroid-free TCM cream for fungal skin infections?

QICAOGANGMU combines two herbs with published antifungal activity — Cnidii Fructus (3%) against dermatophytes and Malassezia, and Sophorae Flavescentis Radix (1.5%) with Candida coverage — in a steroid-free base. It is suitable for fungal skin infections including ringworm, pityrosporum folliculitis, and tinea without the risks associated with corticosteroid use.

Can QICAOGANGMU be used during topical steroid withdrawal (TSW)?

Yes. Because QICAOGANGMU contains no corticosteroids, it does not contribute to or worsen topical steroid withdrawal. The Menthol (0.5%) and Cnidii Fructus (3%) provide itch relief during the TSW process without introducing any steroid compounds. Many users transitioning off topical steroids use QICAOGANGMU to manage symptoms during the withdrawal period. There is no rebound withdrawal from stopping QICAOGANGMU itself.

Is QICAOGANGMU safe for children and infants?

Yes — because it contains no steroids, it does not carry the skin-thinning risk that makes topical steroids problematic for children's developing skin. Always patch test on a small area first, and consult a paediatrician for infants under 12 months.

Will my skin flare after stopping QICAOGANGMU?

No. Unlike topical steroids, there is no rebound withdrawal from stopping herbal preparations. The skin does not develop dependency on these herbal compounds. A maintenance phase — applying once or twice weekly even after the skin has cleared — is recommended to support ongoing barrier health.

How long before results are visible?

Most people notice meaningful itch relief within the first 30 minutes (from menthol and borneol). Visible reduction in redness typically takes 5–14 days of twice-daily use. Significant improvement in skin texture takes 3–6 weeks. People transitioning off steroids may experience a rebound flare in weeks 1–3 — this is the skin re-regulating itself and is expected.

Can QICAOGANGMU be used on the face?

Yes — the steroid-free formula is safe for facial use including around the mouth (perioral dermatitis), around the eyes (periocular dermatitis), and the nose area. It can be used on the face daily without the thinning risk associated with topical steroids.

What is the role of petrolatum in the base?

Petrolatum forms an occlusive layer that reduces transepidermal water loss — one of the core problems in eczema where the damaged skin barrier allows moisture to escape. It also helps the active herbal compounds stay in contact with the skin surface for longer. Petrolatum is not a steroid and has an excellent safety record in dermatology.

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Clinical references

• Khan SA, Wu Y, Li AS, Fu XQ, Yu ZL. Network pharmacology and molecular docking-based prediction of active compounds and mechanisms of action of Cnidii Fructus in treating atopic dermatitis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 2022;22(1):270. PMC9580115
• Cao Y et al. Preliminary Study on Antifungal Mechanism of Aqueous Extract of Cnidium monnieri Against Trichophyton rubrum. Frontiers in Microbiology. 2021. PMC8417377
• Zhong J, Liu Z, Zhou X, Xu J. Synergic Anti-Pruritus Mechanisms of Action for the Radix Sophorae Flavescentis and Fructus Cnidii Herbal Pair. Molecules. 2018;22(9):1465. PMC6151778
• Antipruritic effects of Sophora flavescens on acute and chronic itch-related responses in mice. PubMed. 2003. PMID 12736520
• Anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids and alkaloids from Sophora flavescens alleviates psoriasiform lesions. PubMed. 2024. PMID 38358770

Full ingredient data, concentration references, and independent purity verification for QICAOGANGMU is also published at Wikidata Q139585887 and Open Products Facts.