Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Halloysitum Rubrum |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 赤石脂 · Chi Shi Zhi |
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| Medicinal Part | Minerals |
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| Efficacy Category | Astringent |
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| Botanical Origin | The hydrated aluminosilicate mineral Halloysitum rubrum (kaolinite group), mainly composed of Halloysite. |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sweet, Sour, Astringent; Warm |
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| Channels Entered | Large Intestine, Stomach |
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What Is Chi Shi Zhi?
Chi Shi Zhi (Red Halloysite) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Shanxi, Henan, Hebei, Jiangsu, Shaanxi, Gansu.
Nature & Flavour: Sweet, Sour, Astringent; Warm
Channels Entered: Large Intestine, Stomach
Chi Shi Zhi: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Halloysitum Rubrum
Botanical Origin
The hydrated aluminosilicate mineral Halloysitum rubrum (kaolinite group), mainly composed of Halloysite.
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Shanxi, Henan, Hebei, Jiangsu, Shaanxi, Gansu.
Quality Requirements
Superior material is red, smooth, greasy and sticky to teeth.
Macroscopic Features
Irregular lumps, varying in size; externally pinkish-red or purple-red, often with whiter streaks; texture soft, greasy, smooth like fat; light, brittle; fractured surface smooth, earthy; when chewed, sticky to teeth; faint earthy odor; slightly astringent taste, with clay sensation.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sweet, Sour, Astringent; WarmLarge IntestineStomach
Traditional Functions
Astringes intestines, stops bleeding, and generates flesh and heals sores.
How Chi Shi Zhi Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Chi Shi Zhi is classified among the Astringent herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
