Magnetite (ci shi)

Magnetitum (ijzeroxide)

Traditionally attributed effects: calms the mind and rising liver yang and helps the kidneys hold the lung energy.

Safety notes

Can contain heavy metals: only short-term and under supervision. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Ground mineral, pre-boiled for hours. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'substances that anchor and calm the mind'. Magnetite (ci shi) is a heavy, magnetic iron stone that according to Chinese medicine anchors the mind in restlessness, palpitations and tinnitus. It is boiled for a long time and often used together with other heavy minerals.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Chinese materia medica

Nature and taste: pungent, salty
Meridians: kidney, liver, lung, heart

Attributed effects

For insomnia, restlessness, trembling and convulsions, irritability, dizziness, tinnitus and blurred vision from rising liver yang, and asthma from kidney deficiency.

Preparation and amount

Deliberately no dosage is given here: only under the supervision of a qualified therapist.

Combinations

With schisandra, prepared rehmannia, shan zhu yu and Chinese yam for tinnitus from kidney deficiency

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Powder and kitchen
Formulas: Ci zhu wan Zi xue dan

Sources

All herbs from Asia →