Q.   What is Dit Da Jow?

A.   Dit Da Jow refers to a category of herbal liniments developed in ancient China by martial artists for the healing of injuries and to strengthen the body. Dit Da Jow is a Cantonese term and its exact translation is the subject of some debate but is generally agreed to be either -Iron Hit Wine- or Fall and Hit Wine-. Chinese Martial Arts masters developed this herbal knowledge to a very high degree such that Dit Da Medicine is now considered a separate specialized branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dit Da medicine is deepley intertwined with the Chinese Martial Arts, which are generally referred to as Kung Fu. Each distinct system or style of kung fu has its own set of formulas that have been passed on from generation to generation, typically only within the style. Each herbal recipe has its specific properties and uses, on for simple bumps and bruises, another for deeper tissue injuries, and still others for pulled or torn muscles, tendons, ligaments, for hairline fractures, severe multiple fractures and more, literally addressing all types of musculo-skeletal damage. Dit Da medicine however goes farther then the healing aspects. The ancient masters were much more focused on avodiing inury and in strengthening their bodies to prevent damage. Thus, the herbal Dit Da Jow recipes usually contain herbs to strengthen particular areas and tissues of the body. General purpose formulas address both healing and strengthening, but others are specially formulated for strengthening and conditioning to make the body more resistant to injury. There is still another aspect to Dit Da Jow that is very important. Certainherbs have particular affinities with parts of the body or within areas of the body. Therefore, different formulations can target different areas of the body. For example, there are formulas that are best for the lower body, some that are best for leg injuries, others that are attuned to the upper body, some are best for joints and appendages and so on. Martial artists have been using Dit Da Jow for centuries and there is a wealth of history and experience that have accumulated over time, making this a very deep and veryeffective catergory of natural healing. Over the last 4 decades, martial artists all over the world, outside of China have also experienced and developed a great deal of respect for this type of medicine and its sometimes miraculous results. It is clear that this funny smelling herbal liquid with the weird Chinese name has great potential with many uses outside of the martial arts and is of benefit to other sports and to pain and injury management at large.

Q.   Is Dit Da Jow Toxic?

A.   There are many different formulas or recipes, some which do contain herbs that are known to be toxic. Do not take dit da jow internally or apply to open wounds. Keep away from children. Pregnant women should avoid using Dit Da Jow.

Q.   Is Dit Da Jow Safe to Use?

A.   Yes, it is very safe to use. Dit Da Jow has a very long history of effective use and of healing and relieving pain from injury and trauma. At Shen Martial Arts, we have been making and providing Dit Da Jow students, and to the general public for 3 decades and have extensive first hand experience with the many benefits of using Dit Da Jow. We have observed thousands of cases and can directly afirm the to the safety and effectiveness of the formulas that we offer. All of our formulas are classical, traditional formulas developed by master herbalists and used for decades if not centuries. We cannot speak for Dit Da Jow offered by other sellers or for formulas made up by herbal enthusiasts. Please note, this is not medical advice nor prescription.

Q.   How do I use Dit Da Jow?

A.   Dit Da Jow is a topical liniment. Apply to bruises, sore joints or muscles, torn muscles, pulled ligaments, bone bruising and fractures. Massage the herbal liquid on the affected area until it is completely absorbed through the skin. Repeat 2 - 3 times, more for deeper or more serious injuries. Do not apply to open wounds. Do not drink. Keep away from your eyes. For serious injuries, apply liquid to a gauze or cotton pad and tape or wrap lightly to the injured area. Leave over-night, remove in the morning. Repeat nightly for as long as needed.

Q.   Can you provide the list of Ingredients for the formula I ordered?

A.   No. All of our formulas are proprietary and the intellectual property of the masters that developed them or that shared them with us. We have express permission to sell the herbs or the prepared Dit Da Jow with the agreement that we will not make the formula public. We respect the wishes of the creators of these formulas and the traditions that keep this deep knowledge guarded and reserved for worthy students within their respective families.

Q.   How often can I or should I apply Dit Da Jow?

A.   Dit Da Jow can be applied as often as needed. In the case of injury, 3 times a day is a good rule of thumb, but the higher the frequency the better. For strengthening, conditioning, Iron Palm, Iron Body, etc., apply before and after training. Using Dit Da Jow regularly and consistently will pay handsome dividends.... so use it whenever you train, whether doing contact practice or not. The results will speak for themselves.

Q.   How Long will a Bottle last me?

A.   This depends on your usage, how much you are applying each time, how regularly you train.Each regular bottle contains 4 ounces of ready to use liguid. As an example, our students use Dit Da Jow which is enough to last for several weeks of copious application.

Q.   Which is the right formula for me?

A.   That is a complex question and depends on a number of variables. There are 3 main categories in our site, 1) Training Dit Da Jow which is for normal day to day exercise, sports or martial arts training; 2) Iron Palm: This is specifically for Iron Palm and Iron Skills training regimens, including Iron Body conditioning and;3)Healing Dit Da Jow - These formulas are made specifically to heal injured or damaged body tissues, bones, sinews, muscles. Once you determine which category you need, you will find a variety of formulas to choose from. You may have to try various formulas to find the one that works optimally for you. If you have any questions or need any help with your selection, please email us at info@shenmartialarts.com or call us at 760-586-9384 and we will be happy to help you with finding a good choice. Please note, we do not offer medical advice or prescription.

Q.   Is Dit Da Jow FDA Approved?

A.   No. Dit Da Jow is a Traditional Remedy which is a category of supplements and remedies that are not FDA regulated. At Shen Martial Arts, we obtain our herbs from FDA compliant suppliers and we handle and produce our Dit Da Jow using FDA GMP guidelines and quality practices.

Q.   Do you fill customer provided formulas or make prepare custom recipes?

A.   Yes, we can fill your recipe and ready it for aging. We use 1 gallon glass jars for consistency and repeatability and can ship your mixed formula for you to age and bottle. We can also store and bottle your dit da jow after aging, or just fill your herbal formula and ship you the herbs ready to mix.

Q.   Do you offer shipping discounts for multiple item orders?

A.   Yes. Our shopping cart is programed to automatically apply shipping discounts on orders of more than one item.

Q.   What are your hours of operation?

A.   Our website is functional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For customer support, you can contact us Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 6:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00am to 4:00pm (pacific standard time). We are closed on Sundays. Please feel free to leave voice messages at any time and we will return your call as soon as possible.

Q.   Do you take special orders?

A.   Yes. If there is something you are looking for and cannot find it on our website, please be sure to email us at shenmartialarts@cox.net. We will reply with a price quote and availability.

Q.   Do you ship to countries outside of the United States?

A.   We ship worldwide. International customers are welcome and we are happy to service you. We cannot however, be responsible for country specific customs regulations, duties, product entry acceptance etc. We ship worldwide and seldom encounter any difficulties, however, these can occur due to ever changing country specific customs regulations.

Q.   What Methods Do You Use for Shipping?

A.   All shipping is done via either USPS Priority Service or UPS Ground. The majority of our shipping goes via USPS priority service. This is the most economical expedited shipping available that offers order tracking. We use UPS ground whenever shipping large and heavy items.

Q.   Are Herbal Wines and Elixirs Safe?

A.   Internally ingested herbal wines have a history of use spanning thousands of years. At Shen Martial Arts, we have supplied hundreds of customers and regularly received reports of their effectiveness and fast action. Our herbal wines and elixirs are made with high grade spirits ensuring safety and hygene. Only the best herbs are used for our internal wines. Note: User assumes all risk. Shen Martial Arts does not provide medical advice, consultation or prescription.

Q.   Do you use ingredients coming from endangered species?

A.   Absolutely Not.

Q.   What are the dosage instructions for Herbal Wines?

A.   Everyone is different and so your specific dosage will be determined by adjusting the amount you intake based on the results you get. At the beginning, start with one tablespoon of herbal wine mixed with water or tea. Take it once in the morning after breakfsst. You can increase to 2 tablespoons and observe your results. If more is needed, take 1 tablespoon after dinner. Do not exceed 2 ounces per day. A general dosage will be between 1 tablespoon and 4 tablespoons per day. Note: This is not medical advise or prescription. These directions are based on traditional quantities used.

Q.   I've heard that Iron Palm Training can cause permanent damage to my hands. Is this true?

A.   There are a number of different methods for training Iron Palm but they all involve repetitive striking for extended times. This in itself can cause injury or damage if not aided or supplemented by complimentary and supplementary practices that are part of Authentic Iron Palm training. Iron Palm should only be practiced under the guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable instructor that is capable of teaching the practice in a complete manner. We advise finding a qualified teacher and following their instructions. Done correctly, Iron Palm is a safe and beneficial practice that will improve your health instead of causing harm.

Q.   What are the different bags and how should I use them?

A.   First of all, we advise that Iron Palm training be conducted under the guidance of a qualified instructor. There are 3 levels as a practitioner advances through Iron Palm training, Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced. Our Iron Palm bags are designed for each of those levels with the appropriate and traditionally used filling contents. At the advanced level, offer 2 fillings, with the most advanced being steel shot. Advancement is progressive and each level must be fully mastered before moving to the next. CAUTION: Dit DA Jow or Iron Palm liniment MUST be used in conjunction with Iron Palm Training at all levels.

Q.   Do you make Custom iron Palm bags?

A.   Yes. Just contact us with your requirements and we will quote you a price based on size, filling, material and time to make. You can send your inquiries to info@shenmartialarts.com.

Q.   Why does it take time to ship my iron palm bag?

A.   All of our bags are hand-crafted and made to order. We do not mass produce, and we do not have our bags made at some 3rd world country. We make them ourselves and we make them as we receive orders. This means there will always be a lag time between when you place your order and when we ship your bag. We do our best to turn your order around quickly but it can take up to 5 working days for your bag to be completed and shipped. If you are willing to be a bit patient, you will be happy you did. We keep our quality and our standards high.

Q.   What is a Ching Jong?

A.   Ching Jong is a type of wooden dummy developed for training in the Choy Lee Fut style of Kung Fu. Ching Jong means "Balance Dummy" and refers to the movable upper arm which resembles an old style weight balance. The Ching Jong dummy is designed to train footwork, distance, dynamic power generation (power during movement and transitions), and bridge arm and leg conditioning. It is a fantastic tool and superbly effective. More and more fighters, competitors and practitioners of other combat styles and sports are finding that training the Ching Jong advances and improves their stand up game and improves their ability to strike and defend while in movement and is becoming very popular for hardening and conditioning the body.

Q.   What are Chinese Patent Medicines?

A.   Chinese Patent Medicines are manufactured herbal medicines that are used for a great variety of ailments and diseases. They are based on ancient herbal medicinal formulas but pre-made and available to the general public over the counter. These medicines typically come in the form of a small, herbal ball called a "tea-pill". Dosage can be accurately controlled by the number of pills prescribed. Patent medicines are the folk medicnes, the people's farmacy and are inexpensive and widely available in asian countries and more and more so in the USA and other western nations. They are now used and prescribed extensively by formally trained herbalists and acupuncturists. Chinese patent medicines are very effective. They are not controlled by FDA regulations since they fall under traditional remedies. There is a strong undertow of disapproval from the FDA and there have been several smear campaigns generated with the goal of causing fear and skepticism towards their use by the public. In reality, Chinese Patent medicines are quite safe, and a great deal safer than western pharmaceuticals. There are some guidelines to follow and contraindications to be aware of but other than that, they can be a great tool for maintaining long term health, specially the tonic formulas made into patent form, which are renowned for helping to ward off illness. Shen Martial Arts offers a careful selection of Patent Medicines, Tonics, ointments, teas, syrups and even shampoo, all tried and proven by ourselves in regular use.

Q.   You have great information and content in your site. Can I copy and use some of this information?

A.   All content is the property of Shen Martial Arts. No portion of this site can be used without our written approval. Those wishing to use any of our information, articles, blog entries, pictures, videos or anything in the site can email us at info@shenmartialarts.com. Please provide the exact part(s) that you want to use, how you will be using the info or content, how long you want to use it for and the detailed and specific purpose for your request. Shen Martial Arts will give priority to requests associated with academic and research related pursuits. All requests are to be considered denied until a written response is sent stating otherwise.