Purple cowrie shell (Zibeichi)

Pharmaceutical Name : Concha Mauritiae

Zoological Name : Mauritia arabica (L)

Common Name : Purple cowrie shell

Source of Earliest Record : Xinxiu Bencao

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations : The shells are collected in summer, then cleaned, dried in the sun and broken into pieces.

Properties & Taste : Salty and neutral

Meridian : Liver

Functions :
1. To calm the heart and tranquilize the mind;
2. To clear heat in the liver and brighten eyes

Indications & Combinations:

1. Palpitations, irritability, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep or infantile convulsions due to high fever. Purple cowrie shell (Zibeichi) is used with Coptis root (Huanglian), Mother-of-pearl (Zhenzhumu) and Antelope's horn (Lingyangjiao).

2. Wind and heat in the liver meridian manifested as red, swollen and painful eyes or visual obstruction; or hyperactivity of liver yang manifested as dizziness, vertigo and headache. Purple cowrie shell (Zibeichi) is used with Chrysanthemum flower (Juhua), Mulberry leaf (Sangye) and Uncaria stem (Gouteng).

Dosage: 10-15 g

Cautions & Contraindications: The substance is cooked before the other herbs.