Cuttlebone Classic Formulas — Natural Herb Library

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Secures essence and stops leukorrhea - Hai Piao Xiao is classically used for spermatorrhea, excessive vaginal discharge, and chronic leakage patterns involving instability of the lower burner.
Astringes bleeding - the powdered shell is used for uterine bleeding and other chronic bleeding patterns where an astringent mineral substance is appropriate.
Restrains acidity and alleviates pain - it is a classic herb for acid regurgitation, epigastric discomfort, and ulcer-type stomach pain, especially when calcined or finely powdered.
Dries dampness and promotes healing externally - topical use extends to weeping sores, ulcerations, and traumatic bleeding where the powder can dry discharge and protect tissue.

Hai Piao Xiao with Qian Shi and Shan Zhu Yu - a classic lower-burner astringent strategy for spermatorrhea and chronic leukorrhea.
Hai Piao Xiao with Wa Leng Zi - a traditional mineral pairing for acid regurgitation and epigastric pain when both astringing and antacid action are needed.
Hai Piao Xiao with Bai Ji for powder use - a familiar hemostatic and tissue-protective combination for bleeding ulcers or external sores.

Traditional references describe Hai Piao Xiao as salty, astringent, and slightly warm, entering the Liver and Kidney to secure essence, stop bleeding, and restrain acidity.
The herb is also commonly known as Wu Zei Gu, and the two names often refer to the same medicinal cuttlebone material in classical and modern usage.
Its dual use for chronic leakage below and sour regurgitation above is one of the defining features that distinguishes it from many other marine shell medicinals.