Halloysitum Rubrum (Lumpy, pinkish-purple, smooth like ointment, dense pattern, fine texture, soft and easy to break, sticks to the tongue when licked)

【Naming】

Halloysitum Rubrum

 【Source】

Shen Nong’s Classic of Materia Medica, Upper Class

 【Frequency of Use】

D

 【Botanical Origin】

A naturally occurring red hydrous kaolinite, a silicate-containing iron-rich clay in the ore.

 【Appearance】

Irregular lumps, varying in size. Surface is pink, red to purplish-red, or has pink and white patterns, smooth like ointment. Fine texture, easily broken, smooth fracture surface, highly absorbent, sticks to the tongue when licked. Has an earthy smell, bland taste. Water-ground into a milky state, no sandy feeling when chewed.
Vinegar-prepared Halloysitum Rubrum: Appears as nearly round small segments, about 1 cm long, black surface with purplish-red patches.

 【Preparation】

1. Raw Halloysitum Rubrum 2. Calcined Halloysitum Rubrum 3. Vinegar-prepared Halloysitum Rubrum

 【Identification】

Illustrated Materia Medica: “The best is the one that sticks to the tongue when tested with the tongue”, “The best is the one with fresh and greasy color and texture.” Essential of Materia Medica: “The best is the one that does not leak for a long time.” Materia Medica Monograph: “The best is the one that is red in shape and sticks to the tongue.” Compendium of Materia Medica: “[Zong Shi said] Red and White Halloysitum are available in all directions, and the best are those with greasy texture that stick to the tongue and lips.” Drug Identification Supplement: “The best is the one that is peach-colored and sticks to the tongue and lips.” Assessment of Good and Bad: “The good one can shine when rubbed with nails, has no earthy smell when licked with the tongue, and has a light red color inside.”
The best is the one that is red in color, smooth and delicate, easy to break, and has strong stickiness when licked with the tongue.

 【Identification Terminology】

(Modern) 1. Water absorption: The ability of medicinal materials to absorb moisture from the air or the water absorption situation of water test. Such as Halloysitum Rubrum.

 【Category】

Minerals