Gypsum Fibrosum Mineral
Also known as: Gypsum Fibrosum, Shi Gao, calcium sulfate dihydrate
Overview
Gypsum Fibrosum, also known as Shi Gao in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a naturally occurring mineral primarily composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O). Unlike typical dietary mineral supplements, it is predominantly used in TCM as a cooling agent and to address febrile diseases. It is commonly incorporated into complex herbal formulations, such as Maxing Ganshi decoction, for conditions like respiratory illnesses and fever reduction. Its application as a standalone dietary supplement in Western medicine is not widespread. Research on Gypsum Fibrosum is limited, with most evidence stemming from its traditional use within multi-herb mixtures rather than isolated clinical trials. Consequently, there is a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials or systematic reviews specifically evaluating Gypsum Fibrosum alone, making it challenging to quantify its individual effects or establish robust clinical data.
Benefits
Gypsum Fibrosum is traditionally recognized in TCM for its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. It is primarily used to "clear heat" and "drain fire" in febrile conditions, particularly in respiratory illnesses. For instance, it has been included in multi-herb formulas for the treatment of conditions like COVID-19, based on traditional principles. While it is believed to modulate immune response and reduce fever, there are no robust clinical trials isolating Gypsum Fibrosum to confirm these specific effects. The strength of evidence for its benefits is largely based on historical TCM practice and its inclusion in traditional formulas, rather than modern, rigorous clinical studies. Therefore, specific effect sizes, clinical significance, or population-specific benefits beyond traditional TCM contexts cannot be reliably quantified.
How it works
The precise biomedical mechanism of action for Gypsum Fibrosum is not well-understood or elucidated in modern research. While it is a mineral containing calcium sulfate, direct molecular targets or specific biological pathways have not been identified. In TCM theory, Gypsum Fibrosum is believed to "clear heat" and "drain fire," which are conceptual frameworks that do not directly correlate with established biomedical mechanisms. Its interaction with body systems is primarily described within the context of TCM principles, suggesting a cooling effect on the body. The absorption and bioavailability of calcium sulfate from ingested Gypsum Fibrosum are unclear and have not been thoroughly studied, given its limited solubility as a mineral.
Side effects
Gypsum Fibrosum is generally considered safe when used in traditional doses within herbal formulas, and no major toxicity has been widely reported in TCM literature. There are no well-documented common side effects from clinical studies, though mild gastrointestinal discomfort could potentially occur if consumed in very large amounts. Regarding drug interactions, there are no documented interactions from clinical trials; however, caution is advised if combined with medications that modulate calcium levels due to its calcium sulfate content. Contraindications are not well-defined, but individuals with pre-existing calcium metabolism disorders should exercise caution. Data on its safety in special populations, such as pregnant women, children, or those with specific medical conditions, are not available.
Dosage
Optimal and minimum effective doses for Gypsum Fibrosum have not been established through modern clinical research. Traditional TCM practice typically recommends dosages ranging from 15 to 30 grams of Gypsum Fibrosum when prepared in decoctions. However, these recommendations are based on historical use within complex herbal formulas, not on isolated clinical trials. The maximum safe dose is also undefined. In TCM, it is used acutely for febrile conditions, indicating a short-term usage pattern. Gypsum Fibrosum is usually administered as a powdered mineral within decoctions, and its absorption factors are largely unknown. It is almost always combined with other herbs in traditional formulas, as it is not typically used as a standalone ingredient.
FAQs
Is Gypsum Fibrosum effective as a standalone supplement?
No, there is no high-quality evidence to support the effectiveness of Gypsum Fibrosum as a standalone supplement. Its reported benefits are primarily observed when used within multi-herb Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas.
Is Gypsum Fibrosum safe to use?
Gypsum Fibrosum is generally considered safe when used in traditional doses within herbal formulas. No significant adverse effects have been widely reported in TCM literature or clinical studies.
Can Gypsum Fibrosum be used for bone health?
No, there is no direct evidence to suggest that Gypsum Fibrosum supports bone health. While it contains calcium sulfate, it is not considered a primary or effective source of calcium for bone mineralization.
Does Gypsum Fibrosum affect kidney stones or bone density?
There is no direct evidence linking Gypsum Fibrosum supplementation to kidney stones or bone density. Research on these topics typically involves other factors like nephrolithiasis and bone mineral density, unrelated to Gypsum Fibrosum.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27289533/ – This systematic review examines the relationship between nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) and bone mineral density. It concludes that kidney stone formation is associated with altered bone mineral density, suggesting a systemic disorder, but this research does not involve or discuss Gypsum Fibrosum supplementation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38542787/ – This systematic review investigates the effects of time-restricted eating on bone health. The findings indicate no detrimental effects on bone mineral density from time-restricted eating, but this study is unrelated to the properties or use of Gypsum Fibrosum.
- https://journals.lww.com/ahm/fulltext/2021/12000/the_rationale_behind_the_four_major_anti_covid_19.4.aspx – This narrative review discusses the rationale behind four major anti-COVID-19 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas, including those that contain Gypsum Fibrosum. It highlights the traditional use of Gypsum Fibrosum as a 'heat-clearing' agent in these formulas but acknowledges the lack of rigorous clinical trial data specifically on Gypsum Fibrosum's isolated effects.
