The efficacy and function of ochre

Speaking of ochre, many people know that it is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. So do you know the effects and functions of ochre? How should it be eaten? Let’s find out now.

【English name】HAEMATITUM

[Other names] Daizheshi, nail head ochre, red stone

[Source] This product is an oxide mineral , hematite , of the corundum family, and mainly contains ferric oxide (Fe2O3). After excavation, remove the debris.

[Properties] This product is an oolitic, bean-shaped, or kidney-shaped aggregate, mostly in the form of irregular flat blocks. Dark brown-red or gray-black, streaks are cherry-red or reddish-brown, and some have a metallic luster. One side has a round protrusion, commonly known as the "nail head"; the other side has a depression of the same size corresponding to the protrusion. It is heavy, hard, and has a layered cross-section when broken. Slight odor, light taste.

[Identification] Take 0.1g of the powder of this product, place it in a test tube, add 2ml of hydrochloric acid, shake, and let it stand. Take 2 drops of supernatant and add 2 drops of ammonium thiocyanate test solution, the solution will turn blood red; take another 2 drops of supernatant and add 1-2 drops of potassium ferrocyanide test solution, a blue precipitate will be generated; then add 5-6 drops of 25% sodium hydroxide solution, the precipitate will turn brown.

[Processing] Ochre : remove impurities and crush.

【Nature and flavor】 Bitter, cold.

[return through] return to the liver and heart meridians.

【Functions and indications】Calming the liver and suppressing yang, relieving adverse effects, and stopping bleeding. Used for vertigo, tinnitus, vomiting, belching, hiccups, wheezing, hematemesis, epistaxis, and metrorrhagia.

【Usage and Dosage】 9-30g, fry first.

【Note】 Use with caution during pregnancy.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Pharmacopoeia

The above are some of the basic functions of ochre introduced to you, as well as the methods of eating ochre, so that you will not use it wrongly when eating it, and you can also make better use of the value of ochre.