The "Compendium of Materia Medica" records the preparation of lead cream (also known as lead white cream, the main ingredient is lead acetate). The preparation method of lead cream mentions "Take one-fifteenth of lead and mercury, combine it into tablets, put it in a vinegar urn, seal it, and lasts for a long time to form a cream." The preparation process of lead acetate involves chemical reactions. Although saturated lead acetate solutions did not have this precise name in ancient times, solutions with similar properties may have applications in some medicinal and technological uses.

Ancient alchemists often needed exquisite methods in the art of alchemy and pharmacy. To obtain something like a saturated lead acetate solution, or take a lead block and calcine it with charcoal fire to make it liquid. Then, cast it in an urn containing rice vinegar. The urn should be tightly sealed, placed in a cool place, and wait for time.

After a long time, there may be a white object on the wall of the urn, which is the chemical reaction between lead and vinegar. Take the supernatant, filter it repeatedly to clarify, and you can get something similar to a saturated lead acetate solution. The liquid can be used for some sores, smear the affected area, or have the effect of astringent and detoxification; or in the dyeing process, play the role of color fixing, so that the color of the fabric is more vivid and lasting.