Long Gu
N/A (fossilized bones of ancient large mammals including Elephantidae, Rhinocerotidae, Cervidae, Bovidae, Equidae spp.)
☯ TCM Properties
Calms the Spirit and Settles Fright; Calms the Liver and anchors floating Yang; Secures Essence and Stops Leakage; Astringes to Stop Sweating; Promotes Tissue Regeneration and Heals Sores
Botanical Description
Long Gu, literally 'dragon bone', is fossilized mammalian skeletal material excavated from Pleistocene and earlier sedimentary deposits of China and East Asia. The material derives from the bones and teeth of extinct large mammals such as elephants, rhinoceroses, three-toed horses (Hipparion), deer, and bovids, in which the original calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite) matrix has been variably replaced or infilled by mineral percolates, principally calcium carbonate, with traces of iron, manganese, and silica. The resulting substance occurs as dense, hard, off-white to grayish or yellowish-brown pieces, often retaining bone trabecular texture and adhering strongly to a moistened tongue due to residual porosity. Pieces are sorted, cleaned, and broken into fragments for medicinal preparation.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Long Gu (dragon bone, fossilized mammal bone) is a cool, astringent mineral substance used to calm the Liver and Spirit, anchor Yang, and prevent leakage of body fluids. It addresses anxiety, palpitations, insomnia, and emotional instability from Heart-Spirit disturbance, as well as dizziness and headache from Liver Yang rising. Its astringent nature is applied for excessive sweating, spermatorrhea, and vaginal discharge from deficiency. Calcined Long Gu has enhanced astringent action for external use on non-healing sores.
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.