Hematite

USES

Iron oxide is a mineral used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for a variety of health benefits. There are limited studies about its medicinal benefits alone, however, a wide range of health benefits, including the treatment of liver yang rising and liver-wind were reported when used in combination with other traditional Chinese medicine. It is cold and bitter so helps to suppress and direct downward rebellious Qi while releasing Liver heat.

In combination with Niu Xi, Zhi Ban Xia, Xuan Fu Hua, and Dang Shen, it showed hepatoprotective activity and helped to calm the liver and expel heat. Moreover, it helps to prevent the risk of headaches, tinnitus, vertigo, and dizziness associated with liver dysfunctions.

Studies have also reported that Dai Zhe Shi in combination with Xuan Fu Hua can improve the quality of life by supporting optimal functioning of the lungs and stomach. It also decreases the risk of belching, softens phlegm, relieves dyspnea, wheezing, nausea, and vomiting.

When used in combination with Sheng di Huang and Mu Dan Pi, it potentially stops bleeding and reduces the risk of hematemesis, hemifacia, and epistaxis. Besides, a formulation containing hematite with Huang Qin, Huang Lian, Tian Zhu Huang, Dan Nan Xing, Xiang Fu, and Mu Li can help to relieve insomnia, improve quality of sleep, treat headaches and reduce the threshold of anger, convulsions, and irritability.

PREPARATION & ADMINISTRATION

Hematite is available in pills and decoction form for oral administration. Mostly it is formulated in combination with other Chinese herbs such as Ci Shi, Zhen Zhu Mu, Long Dan Cao, Long Gu, Niu Xi, Long Dan Cao, etc. for optimal therapeutic activity. Also, powder preparations are available only for creating different formulations by professional herbalists. It is most often calcined, subjected to high temperatures to enhance bioavailability.

PRECAUTIONS

Hematite is not intended for long term use, don’t consume it for more than 20 days. Also, avoid its use in combination or concomitantly with Lateralis Aconiti Preparata or Zhi Fu Zi. Don’t consume hematite if you have any hypersensitivity to it,  and you should consult with a certified herbalist, physician or other qualified healthcare professional before taking Hematite.

Hematite is not recommended for those individuals having insufficient Qi, inadequate body fluid, or any other severe medical conditions. Don’t exceed the recommended dose because a higher amount may result in thrombotic Rash. Avoid its concomitant use with Fu Zi as both Chinese herbs may counteract each other.

Don’t use hematite during pregnancy or lactation; it is advised to consult your doctors. Due to the presence of small traces of arsenic, it should be used for the short term only.

REFERENCES

Chongyun Liu, Angela Tseng, and Sue Yang (2006) “Chinese Herbal Medicine: Modern Applications of Traditional Formulas” volume 1.

Yifan Yang (2010) “Chinese Herbal Medicines: Comparisons and Characteristics E-Book”.

Philippe Sionneau “Pao Zhi: An Introduction to the Use of Processed Chinese Medicinals”.

Stevenson Xutian, Shusheng Tai, Chun-su Yuan “Handbook of Traditional Chinese Medicine (In 3 Volumes)”.