Yang Qi Shi
Tremolite / Actinolite (Ca₂(Mg,Fe)₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂)
☯ TCM Properties
Tonifies Kidney Yang; Warms the Ming Men Fire; Warms the Uterus and Promotes Fertility; Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
Botanical Description
Yang Qi Shi is the traditional Chinese pharmacopoeial name for the fibrous amphibole minerals tremolite and the iron-bearing variety actinolite, both calcium-magnesium silicates of the general formula Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2. The medicinal material occurs as bundles of long parallel fibers or columnar to acicular crystals, pearly to silky in luster, that can be easily separated along the length of the aggregate. Color varies with iron content from nearly white in pure tremolite through pale grey-green to deep emerald or grass-green in actinolite. The hardness is 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, the fracture splintery, and the fibers are flexible but brittle. The mineral is heat-resistant and chemically stable. Fibrous tremolite-actinolite can include asbestiform varieties, and modern handling requires caution against fiber inhalation.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | 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.