Dan (a special form of pill)
It is divided into two types, one for oral administration and the other external application. The former does not have a fixed form, inclusive of pellet and powder, and gets the name because it consists of rare drugs or bears remarkable effect, e.g. Zhibao Dan, Huoluo Dan, etc.The latter is also called Danyao, which refers to the crystal-like product of various shapes made by heating, under higher temperature, some medicinal minerals. It is often smashed into powder and sprinkled over the affected part in the treatment of sores and ulcer, carbuncle and gangrene. It can also be made into medicinal paper strip or thread for external application.