Mica-Schist
- Chinese
- 金礞石
- Pinyin
- Jin Meng Shi
- Latin
- Lapis Micae Aureus
Known in TCM as Jin Meng Shi (金礞石), this sweet and salty, neutral herb enters the Liver and Lung. Traditionally, it dissolves stubborn Phlegm and descends Qi; treats obstinate Phlegm accumulation with cough, wheezing, and a choking sensation in the chest, most often applied for phlegm accumulation, cough, and wheezing. Modern research has identified Silicate among its active constituents.
Part used: Mineral stone
Also Known As
Latin: Lapis Micae Aureus | Pinyin: Jin Meng Shi | Chinese: 金礞石
TCM Properties
- Taste
- sweet, salty
- Temperature
- neutral
- Channels
- Liver, Lung
Traditional Use
Primary Actions
- Dissolves stubborn Phlegm and descends Qi; treats obstinate Phlegm accumulation with cough, wheezing, and a choking sensation in the chest
- Calms the Liver and stops convulsions; used for Phlegm-Fire agitation manifesting as manic behavior, epilepsy, and seizure
Classic Formulas
- Meng Shi Gun Tan Wan (Mica-Schist Pill to Expel Phlegm)
Classical References
- Documented in later Chinese materia medica as a mineral specific for deep-lodged, stubborn Phlegm resistant to ordinary Phlegm-transforming herbs
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Silicate minerals (mica/vermiculite group)
- Trace mineral elements
Studied Effects
- Mineral composition studied mainly for quality-control and heavy-metal safety screening rather than pharmacological mechanism
- Traditional Phlegm-resolving and anticonvulsant use lacks dedicated modern clinical trial support
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Spleen-Stomach Deficiency Cold
- Pregnancy, due to its strongly descending, purgative nature in higher doses
Cautions
- Must be smashed and decocted first (before other herbs) due to its mineral density
- Source from quality-controlled suppliers given documented heavy-metal contamination risk in mineral Chinese medicinals
- Not for prolonged use
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mica-Schist used for?
Mica-Schist is traditionally used to Dissolves stubborn Phlegm and descends Qi; treats obstinate Phlegm accumulation with cough, wheezing, and a choking sensation in the chest, Calms the Liver and stops convulsions; used for Phlegm-Fire agitation manifesting as manic behavior, epilepsy, and seizure. Research has investigated its effects on: Mineral composition studied mainly for quality-control and heavy-metal safety screening rather than pharmacological mechanism; Traditional Phlegm-resolving and anticonvulsant use lacks dedicated modern clinical trial support.
What are other names for Mica-Schist?
Mica-Schist is also known as Golden Mica Stone, Vermiculite Schist. In TCM: 金礞石 (Jin Meng Shi); Lapis Micae Aureus.
Is Mica-Schist safe during pregnancy?
Mica-Schist is not recommended during pregnancy.
What are the contraindications for Mica-Schist?
Mica-Schist should not be used in: Spleen-Stomach Deficiency Cold; Pregnancy, due to its strongly descending, purgative nature in higher doses. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.