Four Types of Traditional Chinese Medicines, April 2, 1998

Four Types of Traditional Chinese Medicines, April 2, 1998

Realgar: A crystalline mineral containing arsenic, appearing as an opaque red-yellow solid. The reddish variety is called realgar, while the darker variety is called orpiment. Generally, the redder one is considered better, though both are typically used externally; internal use is not recommended for prolonged periods.

Centipede: The whole body of the centipede insect from the Scolopendridae family. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to calm wind and stop convulsions, as well as to clear heat and detoxify—these two applications are respectively for internal and external use. Recent research has shown that this herb is highly effective in treating infectious hepatitis. Additionally, it is used to treat erectile dysfunction, nocturnal emission, premature ejaculation, chronic osteomyelitis, tuberculous cavities, corns, cancer, and various connective tissue proliferations.

Scorpion: The dried whole body of the scorpion, an arachnid belonging to the Buthidae family. Traditionally, it is used to calm wind and relieve spasms, reduce swelling, and detoxify—its effects are almost identical to those of centipede.

Silkworm Pupa: Its functions are largely similar to the above two herbs, calming wind and relieving spasms, reducing swelling, and dispersing nodules. However, its nodule-dispersing effect is stronger, while its fire-clearing effect is weaker.