shigao

Shi Gao (Gypsum or Gypsum Fibrosum) is a mineral substance widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is categorized as an herb that "clears heat and drains fire," with strong cooling properties. In TCM practice, Shi Gao is primarily used to treat conditions associated with excess internal heat such as high fever, irritability, thirst, headache, cough due to lung heat, toothache from stomach fire, and certain skin conditions. It acts by clearing internal heat at the qi level and yang ming channel disorders. Modern research suggests Shi Gao may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects; however, its use remains largely within traditional herbal formulas rather than as a pharmaceutical drug[6][8][10]. Mechanistically in TCM theory—not Western pharmacology—it is believed to clear pathogenic heat from the body and promote fluid generation.

Other names

Shi GaoGypsumGypsum Fibrosum石膏