☯ TCM Properties
Absorbs fluids, r educes swelling and stops bleeding; Eliminates toxins and kills parasites topically; Drives Phlegm downward and suppresses childhood convulsions; Calms fright
Traditional Chinese Uses
Safety warning: Mi Tuo Seng is litharge, a mineral of lead(II) oxide (PbO). It is toxic; internal use readily causes lead poisoning (abdominal colic, anemia, neuromuscular damage) and it is contraindicated in pregnancy, in children and in the weak. It is used externally only, in powder or paste, and modern practice heavily restricts or avoids it.
Traditionally classed for external application, it is salty and pungent and neutral, entering the Liver, Spleen and Large Intestine channels. Applied topically it absorbs fluids and dries Damp, reduces swelling, stops bleeding, resolves toxicity and kills parasites, and astringes and heals sores—used for eczema, scabies, tinea (ringworm), axillary odor, ulcers and non-healing wounds. Older texts also record internal use to drive Phlegm downward and calm childhood fright and convulsions, but this is unsafe and obsolete given the lead content.
Botanical Description
Mi Tuo Seng is litharge, a mineral substance consisting principally of lead(II) oxide (PbO) and historically obtained as a by-product of silver smelting or by deliberate roasting of metallic lead. The material appears as heavy, brittle, yellow to orange-red, scaly or earthy masses that are readily reduced to a fine powder. It has no botanical origin and is therefore not a plant. Classical Chinese pharmacy employed Mi Tuo Seng chiefly as an external preparation for skin lesions and traumatic sores, but its severe toxicity is now thoroughly established: lead is a cumulative neurotoxin and nephrotoxin causing irreversible harm at low doses, and internal administration has been abandoned in modern practice. External use is also strongly cautioned against, particularly on broken skin or in vulnerable patients.
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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