Clear Infection, Soothe the Fire
When skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis become infected, or when dealing with impetigo, the skin feels like it is under siege—hot, angry, weeping, and painful. Goldthread Wash is a specialized botanical intervention designed to bring immediate relief to these acute "damp heat" conditions. It bridges the gap between a gentle cleanser and a powerful topical remedy, washing away bacteria and toxins without stripping the delicate, compromised skin barrier.
 
We formulated this wash for the moments when skin needs more than just moisture—it needs a guardian. Anchored by the potent antimicrobial properties of Goldthread (Coptis Chinensis/Huang lian), this formula acts as a natural extinguisher for infection and inflammation. It deeply cleanses the affected area, resolving the heat and toxicity that drive infection, while soothing botanicals work to calm the intense itch and pain, paving the way for true healing.
 
Powerful Botanicals for Acute Care
This formula utilizes a "heavy hitter" class of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs known specifically for clearing heat, drying dampness, and resolving toxins.
 
Why it works:
The "Three Yellows" Synergy: At the heart of this formula is the legendary TCM trio of Goldthread (Coptis/Huang lian), Baikal Skullcap (Huang qin), and Amur Cork Tree (Huang bai). These roots are revered for their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and their ability to rapidly clear the "damp heat" that manifests as oozing, infected lesions.
Resolves Toxins: To combat the bacterial load associated with staph and impetigo, we include Honeysuckle Flower (Jin yin hua, Forsythia Fruit (Lian qiao), and Violet (Zi hua di ding). These herbs are traditionally used to "resolve toxicity" and reduce the swelling and redness of infected tissue.
Soothes and Repairs: While the herbs fight infection, Aloe Vera Juice, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), and Bisabolol (the active soothing component of chamomile) provide a cooling, hydrating cushion to speed up tissue repair and comfort the skin.
Ultra-Gentle Cleansing: We use Coco Glucoside, a mild sugar-derived surfactant, to lift away debris and bacteria. It ensures the area is thoroughly cleaned without the sting or irritation caused by harsh soaps.
 
A Holistic Approach to Skin Defense
At Silva Medica Botanicals (formerly Thirteen Moons Apothecary), we understand that infected skin requires a delicate balance: powerful enough to remove pathogens, yet gentle enough to nurture damaged tissue. Goldthread Wash supports the body's innate healing intelligence by creating a clean environment where the skin can stop fighting and start mending.
 
How to Use
Use daily on affected areas to cleanse and soothe.
Apply: Gently apply the wash to wet skin on the affected area.
Cleanse: Using your hands or a very soft cloth, lather lightly. Avoid scrubbing, which can spread infection or damage the skin further.
Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Dry: Pat dry with a clean, soft towel (do not rub). Follow immediately with a prescribed topical herbal salve or medication if directed by your practitioner. 
Note that this product will cause mild yellow staining of the skin. 
 
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Coco Glucoside, Glycerin, Coptis Chinensis Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Viola Yedoensis Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Forsythia Suspensa Fruit Extract, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Xanthan Gum, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, ε-Polylysine, Sodium Phytate.