Gui Ban
Chinemys reevesii (Gray)
☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes Yin and Subdues Yang; Benefits the Kidneys and Strengthens the Bones; Nourishes Heart Blood; Fixes the Chong and Ren vessels and stops bleeding; Clears Deficiency Heat
Botanical Description
Gui Ban is the dried plastron (ventral shell) of the Chinese three-keeled pond turtle, Chinemys reevesii (Reeves' turtle), an aquatic reptile native to East Asia. The plastron is collected after the animal is slaughtered, cleaned of adhering flesh, sun-dried, and often processed by dry-frying with sand or vinegar before use. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gui Ban is classified as a Yin-tonifying substance, salty and sweet in flavor and cold in nature, entering the Kidney, Liver, and Heart channels. It is used to nourish Yin, anchor floating Yang, strengthen the sinews and bones, and stop uterine bleeding due to Yin deficiency.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Gui Ban (tortoise plastron) is a cold, salty substance that nourishes Yin and anchors Yang, replenishes Kidney essence and Blood, and clears deficiency heat. It is indicated for Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency patterns with ascending Fire — including dizziness, night sweats, afternoon fevers, and the sensation of heat in the palms and soles. It also consolidates bones, supports the marrow, and stops uterine bleeding from deficiency heat. Its profound Yin-nourishing action makes it important in formulas for exhaustion and constitutional Yin insufficiency.
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.