What is Lithospermum used for?
Lithospermum (Zicao) is often made into shikonin ointment or shikonin oil to treat burns in China. Shikonin is the main component of this purple herb. Modern pharmacological studies showed that shikonin has anti-cancer, wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects [152]. A study on the prevention and care of IAD in older adults found that Lithospermum oil is widely used in China. Research on its properties indicates that it penetrates the skin, protects it from waste, and reduces inflammation and redness.