Dai Mao
Unknown
☯ TCM Properties
Sedates the Heart, quiets the Spirit, calms the Liver, extinguishes Wind, settles convulsions, stops spasms, clears Heat and resolves toxicity; Calms and anchors Liver Yang
Botanical Description
Dai Mao (玳瑁) is the carapace of the hawksbill sea turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata (Cheloniidae), a tropical marine reptile historically harvested from coastal waters of southern China and Southeast Asia for its translucent, mottled brown-and-amber shell. The hawksbill turtle is listed on CITES Appendix I, and international commercial trade in its shell has been banned since 1977. Possession and trade are illegal in most countries, and modern TCM practice almost universally substitutes other materials. Classical Chinese materia medica classified Dai Mao as sweet and cold, entering the Heart and Liver channels, used to clear heat, cool blood, calm the spirit, and extinguish wind for high fever with convulsions, delirium, and skin eruptions. This entry is documented for historical reference only; conservation and legal restrictions preclude contemporary use.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.