Gypsum
Synopsis of Gypsum
History
Gypsum, known scientifically as calcium sulfate dihydrate and referred to as “Shi Gao” in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a storied history of medicinal use dating back thousands of years. In ancient Chinese texts, gypsum was highly valued as a cooling mineral remedy, renowned for its ability to clear heat and relieve fever. It was commonly included in herbal preparations to treat high fevers, headaches, irritability, and excessive thirst related to febrile diseases. Its cooling properties made it a favored remedy for conditions characterized by “excess heat,” such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sore throat.
Beyond its solo applications, gypsum found a revered place in herbal combinations. In TCM, it is a principal ingredient in the classic formula “Bai Hu Tang” (White Tiger Decoction), where it is combined with herbs like anemarrhena, licorice, and rice to powerfully reduce high fever, protect bodily fluids, and alleviate restlessness. The mineral’s synergy with other herbs amplifies its ability to dissipate heat and soothe inflammation, making it a core component for balancing intense conditions.
Gypsum’s positive contributions extend to modern nutritional products, where its calcium content supports bone health and its gentle actions continue to be appreciated for promoting wellness. Its enduring reputation in both traditional and contemporary applications highlights gypsum’s valuable role in the history of natural remedies, offering safe, effective relief and a harmonious complement to herbal therapies.
Traditional and scientific validation
Gypsum, chemically known as calcium sulfate dihydrate, has a longstanding history of use in both food and traditional medicine. Historically, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), gypsum (referred to as "Shi Gao") has been valued for its purported cooling properties and ability to alleviate heat-related conditions such as fever and irritability. In the food industry, gypsum is widely utilized as a coagulant in the production of tofu and as a source of dietary calcium, contributing to the mineral content of various nutritional products.
From a scientific perspective, gypsum is recognized as a safe food additive by regulatory authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which lists it as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for specified uses. Its role as a calcium supplement is supported by the essential nature of calcium for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. However, clinical studies specifically evaluating the health benefits of gypsum supplementation in humans are limited. Most research has focused on its technological applications in food processing and safety profile rather than direct clinical outcomes.
While the direct health effects of gypsum as a nutritional ingredient require further clinical validation, its historical use in traditional systems and continued acceptance in modern food production attest to its positive contributions. As an accessible and safe source of dietary calcium and a key agent in food manufacturing, gypsum continues to play a supportive role in nutrition and health. Continued research may further elucidate its potential benefits in human health.
Gypsum is used for these health conditions
Fever (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)