Zhen Zhu
Pteria martensii (Dunker) / Hyriopsis cumingii (Lea) / Cristaria plicata (Leach)
☯ TCM Properties
Calms the Spirit and Settles Fright; Clears Liver Heat and Brightens the Eyes; Brightens the Eyes and Removes Visual Obstructions; Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity; Promotes Tissue Regeneration and Heals Sores
Botanical Description
Zhen Zhu (pearl) is a calcareous concretion produced within the soft tissue of certain bivalve mollusks, principally the saltwater pearl oyster Pteria martensii (Dunker) and the freshwater mussels Hyriopsis cumingii (Lea) and Cristaria plicata (Leach). Pearls form when an irritant becomes lodged inside the shell, prompting the mantle to deposit successive concentric layers of nacre, an iridescent composite of aragonite (calcium carbonate) and the protein conglutin. The resulting bead is lustrous, smooth, and pale white to cream. In TCM, pearl is ground into fine powder and used to calm the spirit (settle shen), clear the liver to brighten the eyes, and detoxify and promote healing of skin lesions.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zhen Zhu (pearl) is a cool, sweet-salty substance used in Chinese medicine to calm the Shen, clear Liver Heat, and resolve Phlegm-Heat from the Heart. It is indicated for palpitations, anxiety, fright, and insomnia from Heart-Shen disturbance, as well as for convulsions and seizures involving Wind-Phlegm. Applied topically, it brightens the eyes, reduces corneal opacity, and promotes the healing of non-healing ulcers and skin lesions. It is also used in cosmetic preparations for its skin-brightening properties.
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.