Qian Dan
Pb₃O₄ (Lead tetroxide)
☯ TCM Properties
Removes Putridity and Promotes Tissue Regeneration; Absorbs Dampness and Heals Sores; Promotes Tissue Regeneration and Heals Sores; Kills Parasites and Stops Itching; Descends Qi and Transforms Phlegm; Checks Malaria
Botanical Description
Qian Dan is not a plant but minium, also called red lead, lead tetroxide (Pb3O4), a toxic heavy-metal oxide. It occurs in nature as the rare mineral minium but in historical TCM practice was manufactured by roasting metallic lead or litharge (PbO) in air, yielding a brilliant scarlet-orange to brick-red, heavy, fine powder with an earthy luster and high specific gravity around 9.0. It is insoluble in water, partially soluble in acids, and decomposes on strong heating. Historically Qian Dan was used externally in plasters and powders for chronic wounds, ulcers, and skin conditions, and occasionally internally; modern toxicology recognizes red lead as a serious source of acute and chronic lead poisoning, and contemporary practice strongly discourages medicinal use (Wikipedia; NCBI).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| poultice | As needed | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zao Jiao (soap pod, honeylocust fruit) is a warm, acrid, pungent herb with a specialized action: it dissolves stubborn, thick phlegm that has become lodged in the airways and caused wheezing or obstruction. It also opens the orifices and is used in emergency formulas to restore consciousness in cases of stroke, coma, or phlegm obstructing the sensory orifices. Due to its toxicity, it is administered carefully and in small doses.
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.