7Cicada Slough

Cicada slough (Chan Tui) – The Mineral/Insect Shell Used in Traditional Systems to Support Throat Freedom and Skin EruptionsCicada slough (Chan Tui), also known as "Cicada Slough" or "Cicada Molt," is the traditional Chinese medicine name for the dried, naturally shed outer shell or Periostracum Cicadae – the empty insect shell that a cicada leaves behind when it emerges from its larval skin into adult form. This unique biological material has been part of TCM for over 2000 years and is particularly known for its ability to support normal throat function, promote normal skin eruptions, relieve Wind-Heat-related complaints and maintain normal vision.Traditional Understanding in TCM SystemsWithin traditional Chinese medicine, cicada slough (Chan Tui) is described as a sweet and cool herb with an "upward-breaking" character. In the TCM theoretical framework, it acts on the so‑called Lung and Liver meridians. According to this traditional description, cicada slough (Chan Tui) supports "freeing external Wind" and "clearing Wind-Heat" – crucial TCM concepts for normalizing upper-body-related manifestations.Cicada slough (Chan Tui) is seen in TCM as an herb that "expels Wind," "clears Heat," "benefits the throat," "helps skin eruptions break through" and "supports normal vision." It is traditionally used to promote normal throat comfort, support normal skin integrity and response, regulate normal body temperature and ease spasms.Botanical/Biological Composition and ResearchCicada slough (Chan Tui) contains numerous biologically active substances, of which the main ones are:Chitin (a biopolymer) – structural fiber component with antimicrobial actionEcdysone (insect hormone) – signaling moleculeProteins and amino acids – structural building blocksOrganic acids – metabolic componentsTrace minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium)Oligosaccharides and polysaccharidesModern scientific research shows that cicada slough (Chan Tui) components can offer diverse benefits:Antimicrobial action: Chitin and other components possess demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can provide support for normal throat hygiene and normal skin integrity.Anti-inflammatory effects: Studies suggest that certain components can help maintain normal inflammation balance, particularly in respiratory and dermal tissues.Anticonvulsive action: Traditionally used for convulsions; research suggests that certain components can support normal muscle relaxation.Cooling action: cicada slough (Chan Tui) helps support normal body circulation and normal temperature regulation in cases of elevated heat sensation.Normal skin eruption support: Studies suggest that certain components can promote normal skin response and support normal eruption patterns.Antioxidant activity: cicada slough (Chan Tui) contains antioxidants that provide protection against free radicals.Dysbiosis support: Modern research shows that chitin can support normal gut flora and promote healthy bacterial growth.Traditional Applications – TCM ContextIn traditional TCM formulas, cicada slough (Chan Tui) is classically used in situations described as:Sore throat or loss of voice (aphonia)Supporting normal throat comfortPromoting normal skin eruptions (especially in measles-like or wind-related rashes)Red eyes or superficial eye discomfortSupporting normal vision (with "screens" or clouding before the eyes)Regulating normal body temperature (with Wind-Heat-related fever sensation)Childhood convulsions or spasmsSupporting normal skin healthThese are traditionalist descriptions that form part of the TCM thinking system and must not be equated with medical diagnoses in the sense of European medicinal product law.Well-being and Daily UseCicada slough (Chan Tui) is valued by modern users as part of a conscious wellness routine aimed at throat comfort, normal skin health, normal inflammation balance and general upper-body vitality, especially when they are under summer stress, have Wind-Heat-like symptoms or wish to support their throat and skin comfort. The herb works optimally in tea, in formulas, or as part of holistic wellness routines.Many users see cicada slough (Chan Tui) as part of a seasonal health practice – especially for summer wellness – as a supportive element in traditional routines, alongside professional guidance and regular medical care when needed.