Pyrite (zi ran tong)

Pyritum (ijzersulfide)

Traditionally attributed effects: resolves blood stagnation and helps fractures and ligaments recover.

Safety notes

Not with yin or blood deficiency with heat. Pyrite can contain arsenic and other heavy metals: do not use it yourself. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Chinese materia medica: Always have a fracture treated.

Preparation

Ground mineral, boiled for a long time. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'herbs that move the blood'. Pyrite (zi ran tong, 'natural copper') was calcined and processed with vinegar for fractures and bruises. The mineral is known as 'fool's gold'.

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, bitter, neutral
Meridians: liver, kidney

Attributed effects

For pain and swelling after injury, especially fractures, and for pain from blood stagnation.

Preparation and amount

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

Combinations

With gu sui bu, xu duan, corydalis, frankincense and myrrh for injury

Caution: Always have a fracture treated.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Asia →