Mu Li Ke
Ostrea gigas Thunb., Ostrea talienwhanensis Crosse, Ostrea rivularis Gould
☯ TCM Properties
Calms the Liver and Subdues Yang; Anchors and Calms the Spirit; Nourishes Yin; Dissipates Nodules and Softens Hardness; Astringes and arrests discharge (calcined form); Controls Acidity and Stops Pain
Botanical Description
Mu Li Ke refers to the shells of oysters in the genus Ostrea, most commonly Ostrea gigas (Crassostrea gigas), O. rivularis, and O. talienwhanensis, harvested from coastal waters of China. The shells are irregular and often elongate-oval, varying from 5 to over 25 cm in length, with one valve typically more concave and cemented to a substrate while the other is flatter and serves as a lid. The exterior is rough, layered, and chalky-grey to brownish; the inner surface is smooth, pearly-white, often with a darker muscle scar. The shell consists chiefly of calcium carbonate with smaller amounts of calcium phosphate and trace minerals. In TCM, the cleaned shells (Mu Li) are used raw or calcined as a salty, slightly cold substance that anchors yang, calms the spirit, softens hardness, and astringes leakages.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Mu Li (oyster shell) is a cool, salty mineral substance that anchors rising Liver Yang and calms the mind, making it effective for dizziness, headaches, irritability, and palpitations linked to deficiency of Liver and Kidney Yin with rising Yang. It also softens and dissolves firm nodules and masses. In its calcined form, it astringes to prevent abnormal loss of body fluids — including excessive sweating, spermatorrhea, and vaginal discharge — and helps neutralize stomach acid.
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.