Gypsum Fibrosum Mineral Extract
Also known as: Calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO4·2H2O, Gypsum, Shi Gao, Gypsum Fibrosum
Overview
Gypsum Fibrosum is a naturally occurring mineral primarily composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate. It is a key ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is highly valued for its 'heat-clearing' and 'antipyretic' (fever-reducing) properties. Often incorporated into multi-herb decoctions like Baihu Decoction, it is recognized for its calcium content and its role in modulating inflammatory processes. While research on Gypsum Fibrosum is still developing, most studies investigate its effects within TCM formulations rather than as a standalone supplement. Evidence, primarily from systematic reviews and some randomized controlled trials, suggests its efficacy in combination with other herbs for infectious and inflammatory conditions, including COVID-19.
Benefits
Gypsum Fibrosum primarily offers antipyretic and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its antipyretic effect is achieved by reducing serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) and decreasing hypothalamic PGE2 concentrations, which are crucial mediators of fever response. It is traditionally used to clear heat and reduce inflammation, a use supported by observed reductions in inflammatory markers in some studies. When combined with other herbs, it may contribute to symptom relief in respiratory infections, as indicated by meta-analyses of Chinese herbal medicine for COVID-19. These benefits are mainly observed in patients with febrile illnesses or inflammatory conditions within TCM contexts. While quantitative data from RCTs show statistically significant reductions in fever and inflammatory markers, effect sizes can vary. Effects on fever reduction are typically seen within hours to days of administration.
How it works
Gypsum Fibrosum primarily exerts its effects by modulating inflammatory pathways. It decreases the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-6, and reduces prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the hypothalamus, a key mechanism in regulating fever. Although the mineral contains a high amount of calcium, its antipyretic action is not solely dependent on calcium ions, suggesting synergistic effects with other inorganic elements present. The specific absorption and bioavailability of Gypsum Fibrosum as an isolated mineral extract are not well characterized, as it is typically administered as part of complex herbal decoctions rather than as a single supplement.
Side effects
Gypsum Fibrosum is generally considered safe when used within traditional formulations and at recommended doses. High-quality randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have not reported significant adverse effects. There are no major drug interactions specifically documented for isolated Gypsum Fibrosum; however, caution is advised when it is used in multi-herb formulas due to the potential for herb-drug interactions with other components. Contraindications and considerations for special populations are not well-defined due to limited data on its isolated use. In TCM theory, it is traditionally avoided in conditions characterized by cold or deficiency. Long-term safety data are currently lacking, as it is traditionally used for acute, short-term febrile conditions.
Dosage
Dosing for Gypsum Fibrosum is typically determined by traditional decoction recipes rather than standardized supplement doses for isolated use. The process of calcination (heat processing) can alter its elemental composition and potentially its potency; higher calcination temperatures increase calcium content but may reduce other elements. Currently, there are no established minimum effective or maximum safe doses for isolated Gypsum Fibrosum from clinical trials. Its timing and form of administration are dependent on traditional preparation methods, such as its inclusion in decoctions alongside other herbs.
FAQs
Is Gypsum Fibrosum effective alone or only in combination?
Evidence primarily supports its efficacy when used in combination with other herbs, particularly in traditional formulations like Baihu Decoction and in herbal treatments for conditions such as COVID-19.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data for Gypsum Fibrosum are currently lacking. It is traditionally used for short durations to address acute febrile and inflammatory conditions.
Does it interact with Western medicines?
While specific interactions for isolated Gypsum Fibrosum are not well-studied, potential interactions may exist when it is part of multi-herb formulas. Caution is advised.
Research Sources
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0045-1807263.pdf – This experimental study, which includes preclinical and clinical data, demonstrated the antipyretic effect of Gypsum Fibrosum through its ability to reduce IL-1β, IL-6, and PGE2. Elemental analysis indicated that calcium and other minerals contribute to its effects. The study provides mechanistic insights but notes limitations due to a lack of large-scale RCT data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9210065/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs on Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) for COVID-19 found that combined CHM formulations, including Gypsum Fibrosum, improved clinical outcomes and symptom relief in COVID-19 patients. It highlights the benefits of multi-herb approaches, though it notes heterogeneity in formulations and does not isolate Gypsum Fibrosum's effects.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7810530/ – This systematic review of TCM herbs' mechanisms of action identified Gypsum Fibrosum's anti-inflammatory and heat-clearing properties. It provides a comprehensive overview of its traditional uses and proposed mechanisms, while also recommending further research to clarify its isolated clinical efficacy.
