• Jasper • |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Warming |
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Affinities |
LR/HT/KI*21 |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Sedimentary/Wei, metamorphic/Ying |
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Chinese Name
Bi yu, “stone being forced to become jade”
The name refers to the evolutionary process of jasper becoming jade, but there is also the fact that the Chinese have been skilled from very early times at making common stones appear to be more precious. Jasper was often used as a substitute for jade in carvings and amulets.
Dong shi, “stone that is moving”
It is invigorating and moves stagnation.
Mo lu shi, “ink green stone”
Jasper was a stone commonly used to grind ink for calligraphy.
Color/Appearance/Light
Jasper is known as a “grainy” quartz, and it is opaque. It contains a significant quantity of silicon dioxide, but its structure prevents a translucent appearance.
It comes in different colors, though red jasper is most common. Using the associations of the Five Element system will help in determining which color is most appropriate for a given condition.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Key Characteristics
Jasper is the stone of choice to slowly break up any kind of accumulation. It breaks up the Five Accumulations of Phlegm, Qi, Blood, Food, and Heat.
Its spicy and bitter taste makes it invigorating and descending.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Jasper represents Kidney Yang, the root of Wei Qi.
Mu points: jasper gathers Qi to break up accumulations without being overly stimulating.
Methods of Application
The following methods of application are appropriate for all colors of jasper.
Topical Application
The best application for jasper is topical placement on the Mu points in appendix 2. The best shape of stone to use for this is spherical, or roundish, to absorb energy.
Massage the area with the stone for about twenty minutes three or four times a day. Alternatively, as a nightly ritual the stone can be heated and taped to the points overnight. You can also warm the point first, with moxa or otherwise.
It is better to massage the area with the stone rather than just placing the stone on the point. The area of application should get warmer. If it doesn’t, it generally means there is diaphragmatic constriction. (An elixir of calcite or amethyst will release the constriction.)
Place on local sites of inflammation, accumulations, or tumors.
Use a smooth stone to massage the bony holes/Liao points of the sacrum.
Internal Application
Jasper works slowly. Drink the elixir three or four times a day for one to three months to affect the Blood, or for three to six months for deeper accumulations. It is best to combine drinking the elixir with topical application.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Compare/Contrast/Differentiate
All the jaspers break up accumulations and resonate with the Mu points, but red and green jasper are the most effective.
Sandy jasper is particularly associated with breaking up stagnation in the Lower Burner.
Jasper, agate, and quartz crystal are all SiO2 stones. Jasper has a stronger relationship to surface energetics. Quartz crystal and agate resonate with deeper levels of the anatomy.
Combinations
Jaspers enhance the effects of azurite and malachite. Smoky quartz works well as a harmonizer for all the jaspers.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse in warm running water once a month. Recharge in hematite to give it back its “Blood,” or place outside in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
Stone History
Jasper is not indigenous to China; it was introduced from India during very early times. It was used as a protective amulet in Egypt and China.
Most Chinese descriptions of jasper are based on the yellow color.
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BLOODSTONE/HELIOTROPE |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Sweet, spicy, bitter |
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Nature |
Slightly cooling, or warming because it invigorates movement |
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Affinities |
LU/LR/HT/SI/ST/LI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan |
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Chinese Name
Chi dim shi, “red spot stone”
The red spots are due to hematite.
Ji xue shi, “chicken bloodstone”
The herb ji xue teng (milletia) also moves and nourishes Blood.
Xue hai, “Blood sea”
Xue hai is also the name for SP-10, a point known for its importance in treating Blood disorders.
Ding chi shi, “settle the Will stone”
“Settle the Will” is a term used by the great practitioner Sun Simiao and is associated with the release of fear.
Color/Appearance/Light
Dark green or black with red spots; opaque. The red spots come from iron inclusions and are the reason this stone is called bloodstone.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) + iron
The iron content allows it to absorb and retain heat effectively.
Key Characteristics
Bloodstone simultaneously breaks up and moves Blood stagnation and nourishes Blood. It is a Blood purifier. It also addresses Fluid stagnation and Phlegm.
Bloodstone clears all kinds of Heat: Full, Empty, and Damp-Heat, including Fire Toxins in the Blood.
Bloodstone can be used in an emergency to help stop bleeding.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Descending and purgative: it detoxifies through the bowels.
Opens Bao Mai (see box) to release deeply buried emotions.
Anatomical level: vessels
Luo points, especially for emptiness of the Luo
Functions and Uses
Clears Heat: Full, Empty, and Damp-Heat as well as Heat in the Blood. Indicated for:
– Heart Fire, petechiae on the tongue
– Stomach Fire, excess acidity causing gastric bleeding
– Empty Heat fevers that emerge in the late afternoon or evening
– urinary tract infections
– acute and chronic infections that have entered the Blood level, such as hepatitis B and C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
– Fire Toxins at the Blood level, such as leukemia and lymphocytic leukemia
– bleeding, bloody mucus, blood in the urine, blood in the stools
– constipation, intestinal polyps, abscesses
Invigorates and nourishes Blood; breaks up Blood stagnation; benefits the Liver’s storage of Blood. Indicated for:
– Liver Blood stasis, such as with dysmenorrhea
– attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity
Breaks up and moves Fluid and Phlegm stagnation. Indicated for:
– lymphatic congestion, such as swelling of the tonsils and other glands
– phlegm nodules, ganglion cysts
Nourishes Stomach fluids. Indicated for:
– dry mouth, lips, eyes, or skin
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– promoting benevolence and humility
– people born in the month of March, as a birthstone
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Massage or use gua sha for:
· bruises and varicosities to break up stagnation. Scrape upward on areas of varicosities, then scrape downward with pyrite (a treatment to harmonize the Blood).
· on the low back, especially the bony holes in the sacrum/Liao points, to help release fear and apprehension.
· above the elbows and knees from the medial/Yin aspect toward the lateral/Yang aspect to move stagnation.
· the Luo points.
Hold bloodstone in the hand to settle anxiety, irritability, or palpitations.
Place or tape:
· on wounds to stop bleeding.
· on spider veins around or on the inner ankle/KI-4.
· on the midline of the abdomen, at the “V” where the ribs meet the base of the sternum/CV-15, to encourage the release of deep trauma, boost the immune system, or interrupt an endless string of thoughts.
· on the sinuses or throat for phlegm or swollen glands.
· on the inner forearm three fingers’ width above the wrist crease (looking at the palm side of the hand), between the tendons/PC-6, for post-traumatic stress disorder.
· on the lateral aspect of the upper chest, in the hollow under the clavicle/LU-1, for dermatological conditions due to poor elimination.
· on the lateral aspect of the torso, about a hand’s width below the armpit, in line with the nipples/SP-21 or GB-22 to release deep trauma or for pain all over the body. (Add a small Herkimer diamond if this occurs during the process of detoxification.)
· two thumbs’ width lateral to the navel/ST-25 to move the intestines.
· on scars where varicose veins have been removed, combined with a small quartz cluster.
· on the medial aspect of the lower leg a little more than a hand’s width up from the high point of the inner anklebone on the border of the tibia/LR-5 (Luo point for Liver) to affect the Curious Organ of the Uterus/ Bao (which includes the male genitalia).
· on Luo points after bleeding, or on empty Luo points, which are characterized by phlegm nodules or ganglion cysts on or near the Luo points. Empty Luo points imply Blood deficiency as well as Phlegm stagnation. This application is especially appropriate for people with repressed emotions.
Internal Application
Drink as an elixir for:
· Phlegm, Lymph, and Blood stagnation.
· Empty Heat due to dehydration, or Full Heat due to infection in the Blood.
· Fire Toxins in the Blood.
· Stomach Fire or excessive acidity.
Make a decoction of bloodstone by placing a stone in 2 cups of water; bring to a boil and reduce to 1 cup. Drink to address functions and uses.
Intentional Application
Wear as a bracelet to touch the inner wrist for post-traumatic stress.
By wearing the stone we encourage equanimity in our behavior by acknowledging that human beings all share similar experiences and emotional responses. From the spiritual perspective, we are truly all the same. If we cultivate humility and equanimity, the result is that we serve humanity. The Heart, with which the stone has affinity, is the organ of humility.
The Energetic Mechanism of Bao Mai
The Bao Mai is a loop of energetic circulation that allows the Heart and the Kidneys to communicate. The upper part of the loop passes through a point at the base of the sternum, CV-15/Turtle Dove Tail. The lower part passes through GV-1, directly below the base of the tailbone. In its trajectory the Bao Mai affects the adrenal and thymus glands, and hence our immune function.
This channel has a strong emotional connotation; it is heavily affected by repressed emotions resulting from deep trauma. When a shocking or fearful event occurs, Kidney Yang, the root of Defensive/Wei Qi, which includes the immune system, responds with a surge of energy. The Marrow is called upon to produce more Blood to heal our wounds, whether physical or emotional. Even when we recover from the trauma and return to our normal routines, the body holds the memory of the event, and when something similar appears in our awareness the same surge occurs in our energetic body. Over time this process taxes Kidney Yang.
Additionally, the memories of the experience are contained in the Blood. The Liver moves Blood to the Heart, and, through the Bao Mai, the Heart circulates its Blood to the Kidneys. When a scenario continually replays in our consciousness, our Blood circulates more and more sluggishly.
The Liver houses the Hun, the soul that gives us the awareness of the past and the future. It allows the history of our immediate family and ancestors to continue through us, for good or bad. The Liver’s role in distributing Blood to the Heart and the Kidneys also affects Heart–Kidney communication; it is implicated in conditions and proclivities that “run in the family.”
A sign of Blood stagnation affecting the Heart is having little red dots, or petechiae, toward the tip of the tongue. Bloodstone is a very important stone to move Blood stagnation in the Bao Mai.
Bloodstone invites us to learn from nature, tree, and plant spirits.
Cautions and Contraindications
Not for use during pregnancy.
Compare/Contrast/Differentiate
Bloodstone is nourishing for the Blood, but lapis lazuli is stronger in this effect.
Carnelian cools and nourishes the Blood but does not have the invigorating effect of bloodstone.
Bloodstone is more powerful for regulating Blood than red jasper or carnelian.
Howlite and magnesite also affect the Blood. Howlite has a stronger Spleen association than bloodstone, affecting clarity of mind and concentration. Magnesite has a stronger Liver affinity, affecting the Sinews.
Bloodstone and howlite both break up Blood stagnation. Bloodstone is more associated with platelets, clotting, and thrombosis but does not affect cholesterol. Howlite has a stronger digestive and emotional component and addresses high cholesterol, arteriosclerosis, or plaque in the cardiovascular system.
Mookaite jasper also treats Blood deficiency and stagnation but more through Qi, the yang function of producing Blood. Bloodstone and carnelian nourish the actual substance of Blood, a more yin process.
Combinations
Combine bloodstone with:
· green aventurine in an elixir to regulate Qi and clear Heat in the Blood or to reduce the viral load in the Blood, such as with hepatitis C or other chronic infection at the Blood level.
· prehnite to tone the Uterus.
· Herkimer diamond to modulate the effects of detoxification.
Cleansing and Charging
Clean in running water. Cleanse with rock crystal. Charge in the sun.
Stone History
Originally introduced from India, bloodstone was very popular in China for cultivating the Confucian virtue of benevolence.
Seals made with bloodstone that contained large amounts of the red color were highly prized by scholars.
Common Locations
India
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BROWN JASPER |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Warming |
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Affinities |
LU/LR/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Brown; opaque
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Key Characteristics
Breaks up accumulations, especially in the Lower Burner, or on the surface as the Liver discharges to the skin. Detoxifying.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Anatomical level: skin
Functions and Uses
Breaks up accumulations. Indicated for:
– liver spots, blemishes, scars
– kidney stones, uric acid
– difficult or painful urination, especially if the chest feels congested
Clears Heat and Fire Toxins. Indicated for:
– toxic residue from addictions: nicotine, alcohol, caffeine
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– past-life regression, soul retrieval, astral projection, lucid dreaming
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the lateral torso just under and in front of the twelfth rib, usually slightly higher than the navel/Kidney Mu/GB-25, to slowly break up kidney stones.
· on the midline of the lower abdomen, a thumb’s width above the upper border of the pubic bone/Bladder Mu/CV-3, for Lin syndrome.
· on the lower abdomen or the sacrum to break up stagnation in the pelvic region.
Internal Application
Drink as an elixir to address functions and uses.
Intentional Application
Hold, drink the elixir, or place brown jasper under the pillow for past-life regression, soul retrieval, astral projection, or lucid dreaming
Spray the elixir as a room purifier, or place a bowl of tumbled stones in a room to dissipate negative energy coming from living beings.
Brown jasper is important for absorbing negativity in areas where someone or something has died. For a month after someone has died, place a bowl full of brown jasper in the room to help the spirit release its attachment to Earth and move on.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
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GREEN JASPER |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Warming |
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Affinities |
LR/GB |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Metamorphic/Ying |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Medium or dark green; opaque. The green color addresses physical illness and promotes detoxification.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
The cause of the green color is perhaps due to chlorite ((Mg,Fe,Li)6AlSi3O10(OH)8) or actinolite (Ca2(Mg4.5-2.5 Fe2+0.5-2.5)Si8O22(OH)2).
Key Characteristics
Breaks up accumulations related to the Liver and Gall Bladder. The relationship to the Liver also brings its effect to the skin.
Its invigorating quality addresses blockages caused either by Cold or by Heat.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Accesses the Source/Yuan and Defensive/Wei levels to release to the exterior.
Functions and Uses
Breaks up accumulations, both Cold and Heat, and promotes elimination; detoxifying. Indicated for:
– gallstones, weight loss
– skin conditions
– any kind of Obstruction/Bi syndrome; musculoskeletal problems, including spasms or pain in the joints, bone, and nerves; sciatica; tendinitis
Cools Heat in the Blood. Indicated for:
– high blood pressure and insomnia due to Heat
– migraines
Emotional use. Indicated for:
– the person with an obsessive personality, who accumulates thoughts
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Green jasper is especially effective for application on the Mu points.
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the chest, in the intercostal space below the breast tissue, in a line below the nipple/Liver Mu/LR-14 and/or in the next lower intercostal space/Gall Bladder Mu/GB-24, to slowly break up gallstones.
· on areas of pain.
Internal Application
Drink the elixir before meals for weight loss.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse in warm running water once a month. Recharge in hematite or place outside in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
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RED JASPER/SILEX |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Cooling |
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Affinities |
LU/LR/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, metamorphic/Ying, sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Opaque, strong red orange (hong in Chinese)
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) + iron
Key Characteristics
Breaks up Blood stagnation and, among the jaspers, has the strongest effect for the Mu points. It affects the vascular system.
All accumulation eventually affects the Blood, making red jasper a particularly important stone.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Anatomical level: vessels
Functions and Uses
Invigorates Blood to break up stagnation affecting the Heart, especially due to Heat; cools Heat in the Blood; calms the Shen. Indicated for:
– insomnia, high blood pressure
– hemorrhoids, varicosities, phlebitis
– anxiety, mood disorders, irritability, nervousness
Regulates Qi and Blood.
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– cleansing the aura
– supporting the rebirthing process
– strengthening root chakra function
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the center of the sternum, in line with the nipples/CV-17 and/or on the midline of the abdomen, at the “V” where the ribs meet the base of the sternum/CV-15 for Shen disturbance or to break up the traumas of the past that prevent us from moving on.
· on the tailbone to circulate energy in the Bao Mai.
· on visible blood vessels, such as spider veins or varicosities.
· on the head or soles of the feet for high blood pressure or anxiety.
Massage Mu points with red jasper to break up accumulations and Blood stagnation.
In a stone layout, place at the root chakra.
Place seven to nine pieces into a bath with sea salt to break up Blood stagnation.
Internal Application
Drink as an elixir to break up Blood stagnation.
Intentional Application
Place under the pillow to protect against nightmares.
Wear as an amulet to help one adjust to changes, such as when traveling or facing new circumstances in life.
Surround a generator crystal with jasper in a cancer clinic to break up energetic accumulations in the environment and to support the softening of attitudes.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse in warm running water once a month. Recharge in hematite or place the stone outside in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
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SANDY JASPER |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Cooling |
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Affinities |
KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Opaque. It appears as tightly compressed grains of sand.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Key Characteristics
Of the jaspers, sandy jasper has the strongest effect on the Kidneys.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Descending
Functions and Uses
Breaks up and releases stagnation/Zheng Jia in the Lower Burner; diuretic. Indicated for:
– prostatitis, accumulations in the Kidneys
– infertility resulting from long-term gynecological stagnation
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the lateral torso just under and in front of the twelfth rib, usually slightly higher than the navel/Kidney Mu/GB-25 and on the midline of the lower abdomen, a thumb’s width above the upper border of the pubic bone/Bladder Mu/CV-3, to break up and release stagnation in the Lower Burner.
· the bony holes in the sacrum/Liao points for accumulations in the prostate.
Internal Application
Drink an elixir of sandy jasper to break up kidney stones.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse in warm running water once a month. Recharge in hematite or place the stone outside in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
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YELLOW JASPER |
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(See color insert plate 8) |
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Taste |
Bitter, spicy |
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Nature |
Cold |
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Affinities |
SP/LR |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, metamorphic/Ying, sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Yellow or brownish yellow; opaque
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) + iron
Key Characteristics
The yellow color of jasper associates with the Earth element and benefits Spleen functioning, including digestion and the production of Blood.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Anatomical level: flesh
Functions and Uses
Breaks up stagnation. Indicated for:
– fibromyalgia
– Food Stagnation
Clears Stomach Fire; strengthens Spleen function; benefits digestion; nourishes Spleen production of Blood. Indicated for:
– Phlegm and Damp accumulation
– obesity, Food Stagnation
– irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence
Nourishes and invigorates the Blood; clears Heat in the Blood. Indicated for:
– Heat in the Blood due to hormonal deficiency, menopause
– high blood pressure
– insomnia
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– strengthening solar plexus chakra function
– health palace—for people who feel drained because they are preoccupied and do not pay attention to their health
– someone who is accident-prone or has poor coordination resulting from Dampness in the Liver and Gall Bladder, and who has acute injuries leading to poor health
– career palace—helps cultivate a career as an acupuncturist because it breaks up accumulations
– travel and adventure palace—use as a protective amulet while traveling
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Warm yellow jasper and apply to major articulations (hips and shoulders) for joint pain.
Place a heated stone (or use a far-infrared lamp) on the navel for obesity or flaccidity.
For muscle weakness or pain, apply to fleshy areas where muscles join or energy gathers, such as at the biceps, pectoralis, and gastrocnemius.
Massage and then place on the midline of the abdomen, midway between the xiphoid process and the navel/CV-12/Stomach Mu, and on the lateral torso, just below and in front of the tip of the eleventh rib, usually on a level slightly higher than the navel/LR-13/Spleen Mu, for stagnation of Dampness/Phlegm (physiological or emotional). Breaks up food stasis and helps promote weight loss.
Use as a wand to massage lipomas, ganglion cysts, and trigger points.
In a stone layout, place on the solar plexus chakra.
Internal Application
Drink as an elixir one hour before meals to reduce Food Stagnation and strengthen the production of Postnatal Qi.
Drink 4 ounces three or four times a day to slowly resolve menopausal signs and symptoms. (This works best on an empty stomach.)
Intentional Application
Yellow jasper is popular for cultivating the health palace. Place a bowl of the stones in the eastern corner or the center of the house to break up accumulations.
Acupuncturists can place bowls of yellow jasper in the career corner of their homes or offices to help break up energetic accumulations in the environment.
Carry as a protective amulet while traveling.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Combinations
Combine with a Blood-nourishing stone, such as carnelian or lapis lazuli, to reinforce yellow jasper’s effect on the nourishment of Blood.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse in warm running water once a month. Recharge in hematite or place the stone outside in the early morning or late afternoon sunlight.
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• Flint/Strike Flint • |
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(See color insert plate 9) |
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Taste |
Spicy |
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Nature |
Warming |
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Affinities |
LU/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide/biochemical |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, sedimentary/Wei |
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Chinese Name
Zhu shi, “using-fire-to-expel stone”
Among its many uses as a tool, flint’s spark produces fire. In stone medicine, flint strongly invigorates Yang Qi to expel pathogenic factors.
Color/Appearance/Light
Black, brown, black and white, grays, shades of pink, striped. Flint takes on a good polish, giving a glassy luster, but the raw surface is dull.
The sedimentary varieties of flint form from the solidification of ancient sea floor ooze. It can show layers of sediment and often contains tiny marine fossils. The striped pattern is likely to be sedimentary. The stripes give increased directionality, stimulating movement of Wei Qi.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
In the evolutionary model, flint is a form of jasper containing a high concentration of quartz.
Key Characteristics
Flint burns up negativity.
It stimulates Defensive/Wei Qi to release pathology to the exterior. It is very invigorating for Qi.
From a spiritual point of view, flint promotes the capacity to bring deep, unconscious wisdom and creativity upward to consciousness. It accesses both the Source/Yuan and the Defensive/Wei levels of energy.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Mobilizes energy up and out.
Accesses the Source/Yuan and Defensive/Wei levels to support a Divergent Meridian treatment to release pathology to the exterior.
Functions and Uses
Mobilizes Yang Qi to expel Wind. Indicated for:
– external and internal pathogenic factors
– aching joints with change of weather
Breaks up and expels Wind-Phlegm in the joints or flesh. Indicated for:
– ganglions, lipomas, cysts
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– protection—place under the pillow for nightmares
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Carry flint for Raynaud’s syndrome.
Rub on the cuticles/Jing-Well points to stimulate Wei Qi.
Use it to scrape ganglion cysts and lipomas.
Intentional Application
Hold in hand before sleep to guard against fear.
Place under the pillow to prevent nightmares.
Cautions and Contraindications
None known.
Cleansing and Charging
Flint is a very sturdy stone. Cleanse once a month and recharge at the peak of the noontime sun to amplify its Yang Qi, or recharge with a quartz generator crystal.
Stone History
Flint was used as a tool as far back as 1.5 million years ago. Until it was replaced by forged metal, flint was a major resource in ancient cultures for making tools and weapons. It represents how ancient people implemented their knowledge and creativity. The stone reminds us that we, too, have access to and can implement this knowledge and creativity in our lives.
Early acupuncture needles were made from flint and agate.
Common Locations
England, Germany, Denmark, Poland, United States (Ohio, Texas)
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• Chalcedony • |
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|
(See color insert plate 10) |
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Taste |
Sweet (can also be spicy or bitter depending on the color) |
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Nature |
Slightly cooling or warming, depending on the color |
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Affinities |
LU/SP/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, sedimentary/Wei |
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Chinese Name
Yu sui, “the marrow that becomes jade”
In the evolutionary process of formation, chalcedony is moving away from the agate phase toward jade. It represents a process of solidification in that it has fewer bands or speckles than agate does and is more homogenous in its color and appearance.
Color/Appearance/Light
Pure chalcedony is white, gray, or blue. It is relatively translucent but never transparent. When light shines through, it can appear pink or reddish. The blue and pink tones are caused by chalcedony’s dynamics with light, called Rayleigh scattering, the same mechanism that makes the sky look blue.
In general, the blue color absorbs inward to affect deep aspects of the self. The pink or red tones reflect outward to affect circulation and interaction.
Other colors are caused by inclusions of minerals. Lighter or darker shades of color give chalcedony the ability to affect levels of both Qi and Blood. A lighter color indicates a higher quartz content, which is tonifying for Qi. Darker colors are more nourishing for Yin.
Chalcedony forms when hot silica gel fills cavities in other rocks and solidifies into crusts or unusual shapes. It sometimes occurs in geodes, lining the cavity with mammilary blobs. Chalcedony creates petrified wood during the process of silica dioxide replacing organic material.
When polished and carved, chalcedony is relatively translucent and uniform in color. Rough specimens often appear with a bumpy, frosty surface.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Other minerals contribute to a variety of colors, including iron, nickel, and manganese.
Key Characteristics
Tonifies and regulates Qi and Blood.
Chalcedony opens the sensory portals; it is beneficial for people who are absorbed by mundane requirements of life, losing sight of the most important things.
Chalcedony is generally cooling and hydrating. It is an important stone to clear Heat, especially in the throat. As an oxide it releases heat quickly, but it requires frequent application.
In Western tradition chalcedony is called the milk stone for its ability to promote lactation.
Although it has resonance with the anatomical layer of the vessels, long-term use affects deeper levels of energy and illness.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Anatomical level: vessels
Chalcedony is generally supportive to Divergent Meridian treatments.
Balances the Defensive/Wei and Nourishing/Ying levels.
Functions and Uses
See specific colors.
Methods of Application
See specific colors.
Cautions and Contraindications
According to Li Shizhen, chalcedony should not be combined with azurite. Azurite has a strong Wood association; chalcedony has an association to Water and Fire. The combination emphasizes the relationship of Water giving birth to Wood, and subsequently fueling Fire. Together the stones become overbearing and exert control over one’s life, eventually “burning up” the wearer/user.
Compare/Contrast/Differentiate
Compared to agate, chalcedony is more effective for clearing Heat. It is slightly harder than agate. Chalcedony is more appropriate for chronic conditions, and agate for acute.
Chalcedony is nourishing to the actual substance of blood; tiger eye nourishes by way of the yang process of separating the clear from the turbid.
Amethyst and chalcedony both have significant relationship to Blood. Chalcedony relates to the Pericardium, while Amethyst relates to the Heart.
Combinations
Chalcedony combines well with quartz crystal in an elixir intended to tonify Qi, especially for someone who is very lethargic upon awakening.
To emphasize its effect on the Divergent Meridians, combine chalcedony with a stone (such as tourmaline) that addresses the specific confluent points of the Divergent Meridians: black tourmaline—UB/KI; yellow tourmaline—ST/SP; green tourmaline—LR/GB; or red or pink tourmaline—HT/SI.
Cleansing and Charging
Discharge once a month in running water. Recharge in a glass container placed over a bed of sea salt for one day, then place with a quartz crystal, again for one day. Alternatively, cleanse in an amethyst geode.
Stone History
In folk medicine, chalcedony was boiled for fifteen minutes (combined with an enhancing quartz crystal) with a pinch of salt to make a “tea” to treat sore throat. (The salt helps soften phlegm.)
Chalcedony was popular for amulets and snuff bottles.
Common Locations
Chalcedony is extremely common and found in abundance worldwide. India is a major source of good-quality chalcedony.
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BLUE CHALCEDONY |
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(See color insert plate 10) |
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Taste |
Sweet |
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Nature |
Slightly cooling |
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Affinities |
LU/SP/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
The sky-blue color of this stone signifies renewal. Tumbled and polished, it is a relatively uniform color. Rough, it has a frosted appearance.
By its color, blue chalcedony has a strong resonance with the throat region.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Key Characteristics
Blue chalcedony promotes the ability to communicate clearly.
It clears Heat and Phlegm.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
The blue color directs the effects of the stone inward. It targets the throat region.
Functions and Uses
Clears Full and Empty Heat. Indicated for:
– Lung Heat, especially as it affects the throat region; hoarseness; sore throat
– thyroid issues
– asthma, wheezing, coughing
– smokers
– menopausal signs and symptoms
– Stomach Fire causing Qi deficiency, chronic gastritis
– Hot Bi/Obstruction syndrome
– red eyes
– problems related to speech or the voice, such as Tourette’s syndrome or speech dyslexia
– mental distraction
Transforms Phlegm, especially in the upper region. (The more banded the stone, the more it clears Phlegm.) Indicated for:
– glaucoma; cataracts; pressure in ears, head, or sinuses; goiters
– pensiveness, obsessions
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– improving communication with the external world, including pets and plants
– assisting the process of channeling information—grants access to knowing more than what appears to be
– strengthening throat chakra function
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Blue chalcedony combines well with vinegar to astringe its effect. Rub vinegar on the skin and place the stone on it.
Rub cuticles/Jing-Well points to release pathology to the exterior.
Massage the sternocleidomastoid muscle to release the throat and to treat tonsillitis.
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the center of the sternum, in line with the nipples/CV-17, to tonify Qi.
· on the paravertebral muscles adjacent to the lower border of the L2 spinous process/UB-23 to support Kidney function.
· on the navel/CV-8 to tonify Defensive/Wei Qi. (Place on a layer of salt and heat with moxa.)
Internal Application
As an elixir or water, drink daily for chronic gastritis, to clear Empty Heat signs and symptoms of menopause, or to clear Lung Heat resulting from smoking.
Intentional Application
In a clinic devoted to the treatment of eye, ear, nose, or throat disorders, surround a generator crystal with blue chalcedony.
Cautions and Contraindications
According to Li Shizhen, chalcedony should not be combined with azurite.
Compare/Contrast/Differentiate
Blue chalcedony and blue lace agate are often used interchangeably. Generally, stones with few or no bands are considered chalcedony. Blue lace agate has more effect on Phlegm because of its banding.
Combinations
Combine blue chalcedony with calcite to treat External Wind-Heat conditions or to clear Lung Heat that results from smoking.
Cleansing and Charging
Discharge once a month in running water. Recharge in a glass container placed over a bed of sea salt for one day, and then place with a quartz crystal, again for one day. Alternatively, cleanse in an amethyst geode.
Common Locations
Good-quality blue chalcedony comes from Malawi and Namibia.
GREEN CHALCEDONY
(See color insert plate 10)
See the description of chrysoprase in chapter 17.
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PINK CHALCEDONY |
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Taste |
Sweet |
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Nature |
Slightly cooling |
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Affinities |
LU/SP/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
Pale pink. Dynamics of light cause the color more than mineral content.
The pink color offers a sense of innocence—to be more childlike and less rigid in attitude.
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Manganese can cause a dark pink or reddish color.
Key Characteristics
Assists Kidney Qi in its support of Spleen Qi to produce Blood.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
The pink color directs its effects to the exterior.
Functions and Uses
Nourishes Yin; generates Fluid. Indicated for:
– poor milk flow in a nursing mother
Tonifies and regulates Qi and Blood; balances the Defensive/Wei and Blood/Ying levels. Indicated for:
– tenderness in the breasts
– melancholia, lassitude, lethargy
– physical inflexibility
Stimulates Heart Qi. Indicated for:
– poor circulation, Raynaud’s syndrome, cold hands and feet
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Hold pink chalcedony to stimulate the center of the palm/PC-8 while nursing to stimulate milk flow.
Massage, place, or tape:
· on the paravertebral muscles adjacent to the lower border of the T7 spinous process/UB-17, the Influential Point for Blood, to tonify Blood.
· on the paravertebral muscles adjacent to the lower border of the T11 spinous process/UB-20 to support Spleen function.
Internal Application
As an elixir, drink to nourish Yin and address other functions and uses.
Cautions and Contraindications
According to Li Shizhen, chalcedony should not be combined with azurite.
Combinations
Combine pink chalcedony and rhodochrosite in a combination for cardiac insufficiency.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse once a month in running water. Recharge in a glass container placed over a bed of sea salt for one day, then place with a quartz crystal, again for one day. Alternatively, cleanse in an amethyst geode.
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RED CHALCEDONY/CARNELIAN |
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(See color insert plate 10) |
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Taste |
Bitter, sweet |
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Nature |
Cooling |
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Affinities |
LU/LR/SP/ST/HT/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan |
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Chinese Name
Guang yu sui, “that which illuminates from chalcedony” Hong yu sui, “red jade marrow”
Color/Appearance/Light
Bright orange to deeply red; somewhat translucent. From the Five Element point of view, the orange-red color of carnelian is the result of Fire/red moving into Earth/yellow and becoming orange. The Earth tempers the Fire to yield brightness and a shine. It reflects the idea of Yangming Heat burning up impurities and leaving behind only the brilliance.
Carnelian conveys the ability to look at one’s life with compassion (Heart/Fire), reflect on one’s boundaries (Stomach and Spleen/Earth), and begin to change (Liver/Wood).
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) + iron
Key Characteristics
Carnelian is particularly important for the elderly population because it tonifies Yin and Yang and regulates Qi and Blood. It improves the absorption of vitamins and nutrients.
Carnelian has a strong relationship to Lung Qi but does not address Phlegm.
Carnelian reflects the energetics of the Lungs, specifically the diffusion of letting go. It helps emphasize and prioritize the process of healing over the process of illness. It repels negative influences of family members who focus excessively on one’s disease. It is useful for people in an unsupported situation to dissipate pessimism and doubt.
Research in China shows that carnelian increases hemoglobin.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Carnelian supports the Governing Vessel/Du Mai to tonify Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang.
Eight Extraordinary Channels: Helps Dai Mai integrate the Chong, Ren, and Du Mai, which is why it tonifies Qi and Blood, Yin, and Yang and also breaks up accumulations.
Functions and Uses
Regulates Qi. Indicated for:
– shortness of breath, diaphragmatic constriction
– acute pain and inflammation
Tonifies Kidney Qi. Indicated for:
– menopausal signs and symptoms
– premature ejaculation
– postpartum issues
Nourishes Blood. Indicated for:
– infertility, impotence, menopausal signs and symptoms
– poor memory, inability to retrieve information and to concentrate, inability to release difficult memories
Clears Heat in the Blood. Indicated for:
– high blood pressure
– bleeding, especially bleeding or receding gums
– anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder
– infertility from psychogenic causes
Invigorates Blood, especially to the extremities. Indicated for:
– Raynaud’s syndrome, pale fingernails
Breaks up accumulations in the Lower Burner. Indicated for:
– fibroids, ovarian cysts
– abdominal pain associated with intestinal stagnation
– low back pain
– kidney stones
Breaks up Liver stagnation. Indicated for:
– gallstones
– jaundice
Emotional use. Indicated for:
– promoting the ability to let go of upsetting memories and to let go of the past
– people who tend to be nervous with excitement, who do many things and burn themselves out
Intentional use. Indicated for:
– strengthening sacral chakra function
– health palace
– career palace—carnelian moves stagnation; it promotes the career of a manager or merchant and the success of a business by encouraging the ability to relax, to ease up on the pressure of looking for success
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Rub carnelian along the sternocleidomastoid muscle to release the throat; it is good for tonsillitis.
Wear a necklace or bracelet to support Postnatal Qi, especially to benefit respiratory function.
Use the stone to massage the lateral aspect of the torso, about a hand’s width below the armpit, in line with the nipples/SP-21/GB-22, to release Blood stagnation in the chest and break up emotional trauma.
Massage, place, or tape:
· on points of pain on the low back.
· on the midline of the abdomen, midway between the navel and the “V” where the ribs meet the base of the sternum/CV-12, for Food Stagnation. Benefits people who lose weight because they do not absorb nutrients, or people who gain weight even if they are not eating much.
· on the midline of the lower abdomen at the upper border of the pubic bone/CV-2, for twenty minutes a day, to break up uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts.
Internal Application
Carnelian requires a longer soaking time to prepare an elixir or wash.
Drink the elixir for low hemoglobin and to address functions and uses.
Use the elixir as a mouthwash for bleeding or receding gums.
Boil carnelian with water and a pinch of sea salt to drink and/or gargle for tonsillitis.
Intentional Application
Place a red carnelian specimen or sculpture in the bedroom to support the relationship palace.
Place a specimen or sculpture in the east corner of the home or of one’s room to support the health palace.
Cautions and Contraindications
According to Li Shizhen, carnelian should not be combined with azurite.
Compare/Contrast/Differentiate
Carnelian cools and nourishes the production of Blood, but it does not have the strong invigorating effect of bloodstone. Carnelian is more effective at clearing Heat that is damaging the Blood than bloodstone, and it is more nourishing to build back the Blood. It may not be as invigorating as bloodstone, but when Heat is cleared the Blood automatically moves more freely.
Jasper breaks up Blood stagnation; carnelian nourishes and mildly invigorates the Blood.
Carnelian is more nourishing than agate.
As compared to the usual orange-red color of carnelian, light red or pink chalcedony is relatively more nourishing for Blood and regulating to Blood and Fluids.
Combinations
Combine carnelian with:
· garnet to clear Heat during menopause.
· selenite to break up fibroids resulting from elevated estrogen levels.
· topaz to help regenerate tissue and heal the myelin sheath of the nerves (for multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease/ALS, etc.).
Carnelian combines well with di yu (sanguisorbia), “the herb that moves and transforms the Earth.” They potentiate one another to stop bleeding, especially in the gums.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse carnelian in warm running water to draw out heat that it has accumulated from therapeutic placement. (The heat from the warm water provides the yang to discharge the stone.) Charge in rock crystal or an amethyst geode.
Stone History
Li Shizhen recommends carnelian applied on the tailbone to tonify both Yin and Yang.
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WHITE CHALCEDONY |
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(See color insert plate 10) |
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Taste |
Sweet |
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Nature |
Slightly cooling |
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Affinities |
LU/SP/KI |
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Hardness |
7 |
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Crystal structure |
Trigonal |
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Stone group |
Oxide |
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Level of formation |
Igneous/Yuan, sedimentary/Wei |
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Color/Appearance/Light
White, translucent
Chemical Composition
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Key Characteristics
White chalcedony clears Heat and resonates with the Lungs and the skin.
Directionality/Energetic Mechanism/Channel System
Anatomical level: skin
Functions and Uses
Clears Heat. Indicated for:
– open sores with foul odor
– coughing with yellow phlegm, or constantly needing to clear the throat
Methods of Application
Topical Application
Place white chalcedony directly on sores.
Internal Application
Boil with water and and a pinch of sea salt to use as a gargle for phlegm rattling in the throat.
Cautions and Contraindications
According to Li Shizhen, chalcedony should not be combined with azurite.
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse once a month in running water. Recharge in a glass container placed over a bed of sea salt for one day, then place with a quartz crystal, again for one day. Alternatively, cleanse in an amethyst geode.