Subscribe Latest Edition
Herb Central

Herbs & Botanicals



 |  A  |  B  |  C  |  D  |  E  |  F  |  G  |  H  |  I  |  J  |  K  |  L  |  M  |  N  |  O  |  P  |  Q  |  R  |  S  |  T  |  U  |  V  |  W  |  X  |  Z  | 

Limonite (yu liang shi)

What is limonite? What is it used for?

Although limonite is not an herb, it is nevertheless an important component of traditional Chinese medicine. Although it is considered a mineral by some people, in fact, limonite is not a true mineral, but a mixture of several hydrated iron oxide minerals, primarily geothite.

Limonite ranges in color from yellow to orange, reddish-brown, and even black. It is crumbly, has a dull, earthy luster, and is characterized by having a lack of crystal form.

According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, limonite has sweet, astringent and neutral properties, and is associated with the Large Intestine and Stomach meridians. It helps promote contractions of the large intestine to prevent diarrhea. Some practitioners also use limonite to treat dysentery.

How much limonite should I take?

The typical dose of limonite is between 10 and 20 grams, taken with water as a decoction. It should be strained out or removed from the decoction before being consumed.

What forms of limonite are available?

Powdered limonite can be found at some herbal shops and specialty stores.

What can happen if I take too much limonite? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

Because limonite can promote contractions of the uterus, it should not be taken by pregnant women, as large amounts may induce labor. As of this writing, there is no specific data indicating that limonite may produce any adverse side-effects or interactions with any drugs. As always, however, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking limonite or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.

References

  • Chen J. Chron's disease: Western and Oriental perspectives, part II. Acupuncture Today, January 2001.
  • Limonite. Columbia Encyclopedia, sixth edition, 2005.
  • Limonite. Encyclopedia Britannica online. Available online.
  • Yu liang shi. Available online.
  • Yu liang shi. Available online.
Trending
Your Practice / Business
Ensuring Success With First-Time Clients
Ensuring Success With First-Time Clients

As modern medical standardization continues, the field of traditional Chinese medicine has the advantage of comprehensive personalization. For rare or complex cases, deeper consideration of constitution is invaluable. Proper constitutional assessment, especially with first-time clients, can guide desirable and predictable outcomes. This leads to a higher rate of return, and greater trust between you and your patient. 

Shayla Thompson, MAOM, LAc, Dipl. OM
Health Care / Public Health
A Return-on-Health Framework for Whole-Person Care (Pt. 2)
A Return-on-Health Framework for Whole-Person Care

Though the creation of a financially sustainable, health-promoting model feels far away today, we are casting a vision for a full return on health, believing that this compels us to keep one foot firmly rooted in caring for the sick and the other foot firmly founded in maintaining health. Shifting from a fee-for-service model to value-based care using a phased approach is paramount.

Leng Tang-Ritchie, DAOM, MSTOM, LAc; Amanda Azadian, BS
Your Practice / Business
Demystifying the Use of Laser Therapy in TCM Clinics
Demystifying the Use of Laser Therapy in TCM Clinics

Laser therapy has emerged as a powerful tool in the realm of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This new modality fits beautifully into the toolbox of the modern acupuncturist, as it can be used as a hybrid form of stimulation to acupuncture points, meridians, organs, nerves, and symptomatic areas in a new way that blends both moxa and energetic needle-like responses.

Dustin Dillberg, DACM, LAc, PAS