Fang-Feng (Saposhnikovia divaricata) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine commonly used in formulas for conditions classified as "wind-heat" or "wind-dampness." In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), boils (also known as skin abscesses) are often attributed to the invasion of "wind-heat" toxins in the skin. Fang-Feng is believed to dispel wind, relieve the surface, and has been used in classical formulas like Jing Fang Bai Du San and others aimed at treating skin eruptions, carbuncles, or sores. The herb is thought to alleviate redness, swelling, and pain associated with such conditions, although it is rarely used as a single agent but rather as part of multi-herb prescriptions.

Scientific validation for Fang-Feng's use in treating boils is limited. Some pharmacological studies have demonstrated that extracts of Saposhnikovia divaricata exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in vitro and in animal models, which could theoretically contribute to reducing inflammation in skin infections. However, there are no robust clinical trials or systematic reviews confirming its efficacy specifically for boils in humans. Thus, its use for boils remains primarily justified by traditional practice and TCM theory rather than modern scientific evidence.