Lighting without Damage
Most of the ingredients in TCM are plants (roots, leaves, flowers).Shi Gao(Gypsum) is an exception: it’s a mineral. It plays a unique role when the body experiences extreme heat.
The Power of Cold and Sweet
Shi Gao is “very cold” in temperature, but “sweet” and “spicy” in taste.
The unique:Many cold herbs are bitter and can dry out the stomach or fluids. Shi Gao is different. It clears heat with great force (think intense thirst, sweating, and a burning sensation), but because it’s sweet, it doesn’t damage the body’s fluids (Yin).
The “White Tiger”
Shi Gao is the main ingredient of the famous formulaBai Hu Tang(“White Tiger Decoction”). The tiger represents strength and the color white (Metal) represents coolness.
Application:It is used to quickly normalize overheating, for example, after a day in the bright sun or when feeling intensely hot. It brings calm and cooling to the body’s “qi layer” without disrupting digestion.