Meng Shi
StarChlorite Schist / Mica Schist (Biotite Schist)
☯ TCM Properties
Descends Qi and Transforms Phlegm; Calms the Liver and Stops Convulsions; Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation
Traditional Chinese Uses
Meng Shi (chlorite-schist, mica-schist) is a cold, heavy mineral substance used to descend rebellious Qi, dissolve stubborn Phlegm accumulations, and calm the Liver to settle convulsions and seizures. It is particularly indicated for Phlegm-obstructed conditions with mental disturbance, epilepsy, and neurological manifestations of Phlegm blocking the Heart-Shen. Its weight and mineral nature contribute to its heavy, anchoring, downward-directing properties.
Botanical Description
Meng Shi is a metamorphic mineral rock used in traditional Chinese medicine, comprising two principal varieties: Qing Meng Shi (green chlorite schist), a fine-grained foliated rock rich in chlorite minerals giving it a green sheen, and Jin Meng Shi (gold-flecked mica schist or biotite schist), distinguished by visible golden-bronze flakes of biotite mica. Both are obtained from metamorphic deposits in China and are heavy, dense, easily cleaved along foliation planes. The crude mineral is calcined with potassium nitrate until red-hot to enhance its phlegm-dispersing action before pharmaceutical use. Chemically the materials consist mainly of hydrous magnesium-iron aluminosilicates. In traditional Chinese medicine, calcined Meng Shi is sweet, salty, and neutral, entering the lung, heart, and liver channels; it dispels stubborn phlegm-fire, downbears qi, and pacifies the liver, used in formulas such as Meng Shi Gun Tan Wan for chronic cough with sticky difficult-to-expectorate phlegm, mania from phlegm-fire, and convulsions in children from phlegm-heat.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
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.
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