Dai Zhe Shi
Fe₂O₃ (Hematite, iron(III) oxide mineral of the corundum group)
☯ TCM Properties
Calms the Liver and Subdues Yang; Heavily anchors and directs rebellious Qi downward; Cools the Blood and Stops Bleeding
Botanical Description
Dai Zhe Shi is hematite, a naturally occurring iron(III) oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe2O3, used as a medicinal substance in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It forms in steel-gray to reddish-brown botryoidal, massive, or tabular crystals with a characteristic cherry-red streak and a specific gravity around 5.3. Medicinal-grade hematite is broken into small pieces, washed, and often calcined and quenched in vinegar before use. In TCM, Dai Zhe Shi is bitter in flavor and cold in nature, entering the Liver, Heart, and Stomach channels; it pacifies the Liver, anchors ascendant Yang, redirects rebellious qi downward to stop vomiting and hiccup, and cools the blood to stop bleeding.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Dai Zhe Shi (hematite, ochre) is a cold, heavy mineral substance used in Chinese medicine to anchor Liver Yang, descend rebellious Stomach and Lung Qi, and stop bleeding from Heat. It addresses dizziness, headache, and irritability from Liver Yang rising, nausea, hiccup, and vomiting from rebellious Stomach Qi, and coughing up or spitting blood from Lung Heat. Its heavy, cold, anchoring nature makes it appropriate where upward-moving pathological Qi needs to be directed downward.
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.