Dit Da Jow is simple to use, but there are a few things worth knowing to get the most out of it and to use it safely. This is a practical, step-by-step guide to applying Dit Da Jow: how much, when, how, and what to avoid. It’s based on the guidance we give our own students at Wing Chun Halesowen.
First, the important bit. Dit Da Jow is a traditional herbal massage liquid for external use only. It is not a medicine. If you have an injury, ongoing pain or a medical condition, please see your GP or pharmacist.
Before you start: the patch test
If it’s your first time using a particular herbal massage liquid, or you have sensitive skin, do a patch test:
- Apply a small amount to a patch of skin on your inner forearm.
- Leave it for 24 hours.
- If you notice redness, itching, burning or irritation, don’t use it.
It takes a day, but it’s worth it.
Step by step: applying Dit Da Jow
1. Shake the bottle
Herbal herbal massage liquids can settle. A quick shake mixes everything back together.
2. Use a small amount
Pour a little into the palm of your hand, or use an atomiser spray cap to mist it directly onto the skin. The spray cap is less messy and helps you control the amount.
3. Rub it in
Massage it into the area firmly but comfortably. You’re aiming for the skin to be wet but not dripping. There’s no need to press hard. Gentle, steady rubbing is enough.
4. Let it dry
Give it a few minutes to absorb and dry before putting clothes on. Dit Da Jow can stain fabric, and it has a strong herbal smell.
5. Wash your hands
Wash your hands afterwards, and avoid touching your eyes, mouth or other sensitive areas.
Timing
After class
Most of our students apply it once they’re home after an evening session, on the area you’d like to massage, usually the forearms. Doing it at home rather than in the changing area also means the smell stays with you, not your car.
The next morning
You can also apply a little the next morning, following the label.
How often?
Follow the directions on the label. Don’t overdo it; more isn’t better.
Area by area
Forearms
Work along the length of the forearm with long, even strokes rather than digging into one point.
Knuckles and the back of the hand
Use just a few drops. The skin here is thin, so rub gently and check there are no splits or grazes first.
Shins
Cover the front of the lower leg lightly. There’s no need to press hard.
Anywhere near the face
Don’t. Keep it well away from the eyes, nose and mouth.
Not sure which of our bottles to choose? I’ve compared them in a separate article: Dit Da Jow, Iron Palm jow or the 50/50 blend. The standard Dit Da Jow is the usual starting point for everyday use around class, and there’s background on our traditional herbal massage liquids page.
What to avoid
- Broken skin. Never apply Dit Da Jow to cuts, grazes, blisters or open wounds.
- Eyes and mouth. Keep it well away from both. If it gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Heat. Don’t combine it with heat pads or hot baths straight after application, as this may irritate the skin.
- Naked flames. It’s alcohol-based and flammable.
- Swallowing. It’s for external use only.
- Children. Keep it out of reach.
If you’re pregnant, have a medical condition or take medication, check with your GP or pharmacist before use.
If your skin reacts later
Occasionally someone who passed the patch test notices dryness or mild irritation after weeks of regular use, especially on the hands. If that happens, stop for a few days and let the skin settle before trying again with a smaller amount. If it keeps happening, that herbal massage liquid isn’t for you. People doing regular hand conditioning will find a fuller routine in Iron Palm hand care.
Clothes and bedding
Dit Da Jow is dark and can mark light fabrics. Let it dry fully before pulling a sleeve down, and consider wearing an old T-shirt on evenings when you’ve applied it. For looking after the bottle itself, see this short guide.
A note for parents
Dit Da Jow is intended for adult martial artists. If you have a teenager in training, speak to us and to your GP or pharmacist before using it on them.
If you have questions about using our herbal massage liquids, ask me after class or get in touch on 07821 126 685.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen