Chi Shi Zhi (Halloysitum Rubrum)

Chi Shi Zhi (赤石脂), red halloysite clay, astringes the Intestines to stop chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, stops bleeding, and (topically) promotes the healing of sores.

Chì Shí Zhī  ·  赤石脂

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Halloysitum Rubrum

Common English Name

Red halloysite / kaolin

Taste

Sweet, sour, astringent

Temperature

Warm

Channels Entered

Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine

Actions & Functions

  • Binds the Intestines and stops chronic diarrhoea and dysentery
  • Stops bleeding (especially uterine, with chronic loss)
  • (External) promotes healing of sores and stops bleeding

Indications

Chronic diarrhoea and dysentery with prolapse; chronic uterine bleeding and bloody stool; and non-healing sores (topical).

Dosage

9-12 g, decocted in a bag.

Common Combinations

With Yu Yu Liang (Chi Shi Zhi Yu Yu Liang Tang) for chronic diarrhoea with prolapse.

Cautions & Contraindications

Contraindicated in pregnancy; avoid in damp-heat dysentery and acute conditions. Classically incompatible with Rou Gui.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

Check Also

PubMed research

Acupuncture Shows Sustained Benefits for Chronic Daily Headache Prevention in Adults, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Acupuncture): Utility of Acupuncture Therapy for Adult Chronic Daily Headache Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. - Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2026.