Bovine Bezoar (Calculus Bovis)
Bovine Bezoar (Calculus Bovis) (우황, 牛黃) is recorded in the Donguibogam as a mind-calming substance (animal-derived). Its nature is neutral and its taste bitter, associated with the Heart, Liver meridians. Traditional uses recorded in the text include calms the spirit, settles fright, clears heat, resolves toxicity, opens the sensory orifices. Caution: Genuine bovine bezoar is difficult to authenticate and counterfeit products are widely reported — use only through verified, legitimate medical channels.
Overview
Bovine bezoar is a gallstone that forms naturally in domestic cattle, gathered as a byproduct rather than an intentionally harvested part — a distinction worth stating plainly, since it means no animal is raised or killed specifically for it. The Donguibogam records it as a powerful mind-settling substance for states of fright, mania, and unconsciousness.
In the Donguibogam
寶鑑
Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam
- Calms the spirit, settles fright
- Clears heat, resolves toxicity
- Opens the sensory orifices
- Traditionally used for pediatric convulsions
Traditional applications recorded in the classical text
- Severe anxiety with fright and palpitations
- Traditionally recorded for convulsions and unconsciousness
- High fever with delirium (classical use)
- Pediatric acute illness (classical use, specialist care required)
Traditional preparation
Traditionally used in minute doses () as powder, never as a household decoction ingredient; formulated only by qualified practitioners.
This describes traditional preparation recorded in the classics, not a recommendation for use today. DonguiHub does not provide dosage guidance — consult a qualified professional before using any herb.
Cautions
Frequently asked questions
Is using bovine bezoar an animal welfare or conservation concern?
No — it is a gallstone that forms naturally in some domestic cattle (Bos taurus, not an endangered species) and is recovered as a byproduct of normal cattle processing, not something an animal is specifically raised or harmed to produce.
Can I buy this and use it at home?
This is not a household herb. Genuine bezoar is rare, expensive, and frequently counterfeited; it is formulated in minute doses by qualified practitioners for specific acute conditions, not decocted at home like a typical herb.
Sources
- 『동의보감』 탕액편, 허준, 1613 (원문) — 한문 원문
- 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 원문 및 국역 자료 참조