Yu Liang Shi
StarLimonite (hydrated iron oxide, FeO(OH)·nH2O)
☯ TCM Properties
Astringes the Intestines and s tops diarrhea; Restrains leakage of Body Fluids and inhibits and stops bleeding
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yu Liang Shi (禹餘糧, limonite — hydrated iron oxide) is a mineral astringent. Sweet and astringent, cool, entering the Large Intestine, Stomach and Liver, it binds the Intestines to check chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, stems abnormal uterine bleeding and leukorrhoea, and restrains the leakage of body fluids.
It is used for prolonged, unremitting diarrhoea and chronic dysentery from deficiency-cold of the Spleen and Stomach, often paired with Chi Shi Zhi (halloysite) as in Chi Shi Zhi Yu Yu Liang Tang for damage to the lower intestines with fecal leakage. For flooding-and-trickling uterine bleeding and vaginal discharge it is combined with tonifying and blood-stopping herbs. As a heavy mineral it is crushed and decocted first; it is inappropriate in acute damp-heat diarrhoea and is cautioned in pregnancy.
Botanical Description
Yu Liang Shi (禹餘糧) is the Chinese materia medica name for limonite, a yellow-brown to dark brown mineral consisting principally of hydrated iron oxides (chiefly goethite, FeO(OH), with admixed clay and other earthy components). The medicinal-grade material is gathered as concretionary or earthy lumps, often hollow or kidney-shaped, traditionally said to occur near the legendary tomb of Yu the Great. Pieces are calcined and quenched in vinegar, then powdered for use. In TCM, Yu Liang Shi is classified as sweet, astringent, and neutral, entering the Stomach and Large Intestine channels, and is used to bind the intestines and stop diarrhea, stop uterine bleeding, and arrest leukorrhea. Classical indications include chronic diarrhea, dysentery, prolonged uterine bleeding, and abnormal vaginal discharge.
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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