Herb Herbs for external application

Qing Fen

Calomelas | 轻粉

Mercury chloride

TCM Properties

Temperature

Cold

Taste

Pungent

Organ Affinity

Urinary Bladder, Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

The mineral

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Qing Fen

Traditional Actions

Relieves toxicity, kills parasites, used as an external wash for scabies and syphilitic sores.
Inhibits bleeding, diarrhea, dysentery with blood in the stools, abnormal uterine bleeding and leukorrhea.
The powder can be applied topically for any type of bleeding.
Anti-inflammatory and expectorant for difficult-to-expectorate Phlegm and Wind-Phlegm conditions such as mania, coma and convulsions.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qing Fen belongs to the 'Herbs for external application' category. Like the name indicates, this category of herbs is used mostly for external application in the form of powders, pastes or ointments. As such they are used to treat trauma, inflammation, swelling, bruises, bleeding, pain and so forth.

 

Furthermore Qing Fen is Cold in nature. This means that Qing Fen typically helps people who have too much 'Heat' in their body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Heat in their body are said to either have a Yang Excess (because Yang is Hot in nature) or a Yin deficiency (Yin is Cold in Nature). Depending on your condition Qing Fen can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

Qing Fen also tastes Pungent. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Pungent ingredients like Qing Fen tends to promote the circulations of Qi and Body Fluids. That's why for instance someone tends to sweat a lot when they eat spicy/pungent food.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Qing Fen is thought to target the Bladder, the Kidney and the Liver. In TCM the impure water collected by the Kidneys that cannot be used by the body is sent to the Bladder for storage and excretion as urine. The Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. The Liver is often referred as the body's "general" because it is in charge of regulating the movements of Qi and the Body Fluids. It also takes a leading role in balancing our emotions.

Common Applications

Bleeding Diarrhea Dysentery Blood in stools Abnormal uterine bleeding Leukorrhea Mania Coma Convulsions

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Qing Fen

Traditional Preparation

Mix chalcanthite, salt, water, red earth and cinnabar and heat them. When snow like crystal are formed, remove impurities and store in shade.

Recommended Dosage

Note: The following information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice.

0.1-0.2g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Qing Fen

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb or supplement.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many herbs, Qing Fen may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.

Related Educational Resources

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