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Mu Li (牡蠣), oyster shell, anchors ascendant Liver yang and calms the spirit, softens hardness to dissipate nodules, (calcined) astringes to stop sweating and leakage, and controls Stomach acid.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Ostrea (Concha Ostreae)
Common English Name
Oyster shell
Taste
Salty, astringent
Temperature
Slightly cold
Channels Entered
Liver, Kidney
Actions & Functions
- Anchors ascendant Liver yang and calms the spirit
- Softens hardness and dissipates nodules (scrofula, masses)
- (Calcined) astringes and prevents leakage (sweating, emission, discharge); controls acid
Indications
Liver yang rising with dizziness, headache and irritability; palpitations and insomnia; scrofula and nodules; and excessive sweating, seminal emission and acid reflux.
Dosage
15-30 g, decocted first.
Common Combinations
With Long Gu to anchor yang and calm the spirit; with Xuan Shen and Bei Mu for scrofula.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in deficiency-cold without yang rising.
