Hydrargyri oxydum rubrum was first documented in Surgical Illustrations, also known as Sheng Dan or hydrargyri oxydum rubrum. Its pharmacopeial name is Hydrargyrum Oxydatum Crudum. This product is a crude crystalline form of mercuric oxide, prepared through sublimation from raw materials such as Mercury, Niter, and Alum. The traditional method involves using 6 taels of Mercury, 3.75 taels of Niter, and 4.5 taels of Alum. The process includes steps such as forming the base, adding materials, sealing, heating for sublimation, and cooling in an alchemical furnace, resulting in red or yellow sublimated crystals. The former is called Hydrargyrum Oxydatum Crudum or Hydrargyrum Oxydatum Crudum, while the latter is known as Huang Sheng Dan. The color difference between red and yellow Sheng Dan is due to variations in the heating temperature during the preparation process. Heating with strong fire for a longer duration at higher temperatures typically yields red crystals, whereas heating with less intense fire at lower temperatures usually produces yellow crystals.

bubble_chart Properties and Meridians

Acrid, hot, astrigent, extremely toxic.

bubble_chart Efficacy

Drawing out toxins, removing pus, eliminating decay, and promoting tissue regeneration.

bubble_chart Indications

Used for treating sores, syphilitic chancres, all malignant sores with dark purple and black flesh, non-healing necrotic tissue, difficulty in new tissue growth, sinus fistulas, profuse pus discharge, and long-term non-healing wounds. Modern applications include cellulitis, carbuncles, breast fibroadenomas, abscesses caused by septicemia, chronic osteomyelitis, superficial malignant tumors, and syphilis.

The dosage of Hydrargyri Oxydum Rubrum is 0.3-0.6g each time, and the dosage of Hydrargyrum Oxydatum Crudum is 0.06-0.09g each time. It should be taken in the form of pills or powder, and the raw medicine should not be used directly. For external use, a small amount of the powder can be sprinkled on the sore surface with a chicken feather, or it can be mixed into an oil or ointment for application. It can also be made into medicated thread and inserted into the sinus.

bubble_chart Cautions and Contraindications

This product is highly toxic and strongly corrosive. It is generally not suitable for internal use, and even for external application, only a minimal amount should be used.

bubble_chart Processing and Storage

Grinding with water.

bubble_chart Modern Pharmacology

The main component is mercuric oxide (HgO).