What are the medicinal properties of scorpions?

Oct 15, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Ziyi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, scorpions have medicinal properties including calming internal wind, relieving convulsions, counteracting toxins, dispersing nodules, and promoting circulation to alleviate pain. It should be noted that scorpions are toxic and must not be taken in excess. They are contraindicated for children with chronic spleen deficiency-related disorders and pregnant women. The use of specific medications containing scorpion must be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician. Self-medication without professional advice should be strictly avoided to prevent potential risks.

Under normal circumstances, scorpions have medicinal properties including calming liver wind, relieving convulsions, detoxifying, dispersing nodules, and promoting circulation to alleviate pain. The specific details are as follows:

1. Calming Liver Wind

Scorpions possess the ability to calm liver wind, primarily because their components help balance the nervous system and alleviate symptoms caused by external wind pathogens, such as headaches, dizziness, and limb twitching. This effect may be related to certain alkaloids and peptides found in scorpions.

2. Relieving Convulsions

In traditional Chinese medicine, scorpions can calm the nervous system and reduce seizures and convulsions. The constituents of scorpions may help lower neuronal excitability, thereby reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures or other neurological disorders.

3. Detoxification

Scorpion venom contains various bioactive substances that exhibit antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antitoxic properties. In some traditional Chinese medicine formulations, scorpions are used for detoxification, aiding in the treatment of conditions such as snakebites, poisoning, and infections.

4. Dissolving Nodules

Scorpions help dissolve nodules—breaking down internal blood stasis, clots, or masses—and promote blood circulation. This action may be beneficial in treating conditions involving blood stagnation, such as swollen lymph nodes or tumors.

5. Promoting Meridian Flow and Alleviating Pain

Scorpions are used to unblock meridians and relieve pain, helping to ease discomfort and improve the flow of qi and blood. This can be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis, neuropathic pain, and other painful disorders.

It should be noted that scorpions are toxic and must not be taken in excess. They are contraindicated for children with slow spleen wind and pregnant women. The use of scorpion-based medicines must be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician. Self-medication without professional advice should be strictly avoided to prevent potential risks.

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