She Han Shi
StarLimonitum (limonite concretion, hydrated ferric oxide)
☯ TCM Properties
Induces tranquilization, calms fright and relieves convulsion; Stops bleeding; Alleviates pain
Traditional Chinese Uses
She Han Shi ("snake-containing stone") is a mineral substance — rounded limonite (hydrated ferric oxide) nodules formed around a weathered pyrite core, showing concentric brown-and-yellow rings in section. Sweet and cold, entering the Liver and Pericardium channels, this heavy substance settles and anchors: it calms the Spirit, quiets fright and stops convulsions, and it also stops bleeding and relieves pain. Its weight sedates ascendant Liver Yang and Heart Fire that disturb the Shen.
Traditionally it is used for fright palpitations, restlessness, insomnia and childhood fright-wind with convulsions and spasms, and for bleeding such as uterine bleeding, sometimes with abdominal pain. As with other heavy minerals it is crushed and decocted first (long) to release its actions, usually around 9-15 g, and reduced or avoided in weak or deficient patients because its cold, sinking nature can injure Stomach Qi.
Botanical Description
She Han Shi (“snake-sweat stone”) is a Pinyin name appearing only sporadically in regional Chinese materia medica and folk pharmacopeias and cannot be securely matched to a single mineral, plant, or animal substance in standard authorities such as the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Bensky & Gamble, or Zhong Yao Da Ci Dian. The literal sense suggests a mineral concretion, but the identification is uncertain and may be conflated with similarly named earth or stone substances in local traditions. Without a verified source material, no morphological description, composition, or preparation can be reliably offered. Practitioners encountering this name should consult the original regional source and, where possible, voucher specimens before any clinical interpretation. Treat as unidentified pending confirmation.
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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