What Are the Most Common Minerals Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long and rich history of utilizing natural substances to maintain health and restore balance within the body. While many people are familiar with herbal components in TCM, minerals also play an important role in its formulations. These minerals are valued for their grounding, stabilizing, and replenishing properties, helping to harmonize the body’s internal energy systems. In this article, we explore the most common minerals used in TCM and how companies like Qianbu, a professional enterprise in the traditional Chinese healthcare industry, are helping preserve and modernize these ancient healing practices.

The Importance of Minerals in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM philosophy, minerals are believed to calm the spirit, strengthen the body, and balance yin and yang energies. They are often used in powdered or decocted form, either alone or in combination with herbs and animal-based ingredients. Because minerals come from the earth, they are considered grounding substances—capable of stabilizing emotional fluctuations and reinforcing physical strength.

Mineral-based medicines can treat various conditions, from anxiety and insomnia to inflammation and bone weakness. Proper preparation and purification are key, as minerals must be processed carefully to remove impurities and ensure safe therapeutic use.

Commonly Used Minerals in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Gypsum (Shi Gao)
Gypsum is a naturally occurring form of calcium sulfate widely used for its cooling and heat-clearing properties. In TCM, it helps to reduce high fever, relieve thirst, and alleviate irritability. Shi Gao is often a primary ingredient in formulas for febrile diseases and conditions associated with excess internal heat.

Cinnabar (Zhu Sha)
Cinnabar, composed mainly of mercury sulfide, has been traditionally used to calm the mind and spirit. It is known for helping with insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. However, because of its mercury content, modern practitioners handle cinnabar with extreme caution, and in many cases, safer alternatives are preferred today.

Magnetite (Ci Shi)
Magnetite is valued for its ability to calm the spirit and anchor yang energy. It is used to address symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and anxiety. Ci Shi is also believed to strengthen the kidneys and improve hearing and vision when combined with other herbs.

Hematite (Da Tie Zhen)
Hematite, rich in iron oxide, is known for its blood-tonifying properties. It helps stop bleeding and reduce palpitations while promoting calmness. Its heavy nature gives it a stabilizing effect on the body’s energy.

Realgar (Xiong Huang)
Realgar, an arsenic sulfide mineral, has long been used as a detoxifying and antiparasitic agent in TCM. Traditionally, it was applied externally to treat skin infections or used in minute amounts internally to clear toxic heat. Today, usage is highly regulated due to toxicity concerns, but it remains a symbol of TCM’s deep connection with natural elements.

Calamine (Lu Gan Shi)
Calamine, primarily zinc oxide, is widely recognized for soothing skin irritations, rashes, and insect bites. It is often used in external preparations to reduce itching and promote healing.

Talcum (Hua Shi)
Talcum powder is employed for its cooling and diuretic effects. It helps to relieve urinary discomfort and clear heat from the body. In TCM, Hua Shi is commonly included in formulas that treat summer heat and dampness-related conditions.

Qianbu’s Role in Preserving Mineral Medicine Heritage

Qianbu, as a company dedicated to the traditional Chinese medicine and healthcare industry, integrates ancient wisdom with modern quality standards. By focusing on research, product development, and health education, Qianbu ensures that mineral-based remedies and herbal formulations maintain their authenticity while meeting contemporary safety and efficacy requirements. The company’s efforts highlight how modern technology can coexist with TCM’s traditional philosophies—preserving its cultural significance while enhancing its global credibility.

Conclusion

Minerals have been integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years, offering unique therapeutic benefits that complement herbal and other natural remedies. From calming the mind to detoxifying the body, these substances embody the balance between nature and human health. As TCM continues to evolve, companies like Qianbu play a vital role in bridging tradition and innovation—ensuring that the wisdom of mineral medicine continues to benefit future generations while upholding safety, integrity, and holistic wellness.

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