White Halloysite (Extremely hygroscopic and easily disintegrates when immersed in water)
【Naming】
【Source】
Superior grade in the Materia Medica
【Frequency of Use】
E
【Botanical Origin】
It is the mineral Kaolinitum, a silicate.
【Characteristics】
White Halloysite is entirely white. The main component is hydrated aluminum silicate, containing 46.5% SiO2, 39.5% Al2O3, and 14.0% H2O. However, it often contains impurities such as iron, magnesium, and calcium.
【Identification】
Tang Materia Medica: “According to White Halloysite, it is now produced in the mountains of Cizhou, which is superior to other places. The left side of Mount Tai is not known to have it.” Supplementary Materia Medica: “Carefully according to the Tang commentary: it is produced in the mountains of Suzhou and Yuhang, but is no longer collected today. However, Suzhou still presents it as tribute, in both red and white varieties, but it is not very good for medicinal use. Only that produced in the mountains of Yanzhou is the best, taken from between two rocks.”
That which is white, smooth, delicate, and easily broken is considered to be of good quality.
【Category】
Minerals