Mysterious and beautiful cinnabar: cultural and medicinal value through the Millennium
Cinnabar, a bright red mineral, not only occupies an important position in China's traditional culture, but also is highly praised by doctors in past dynasties for its unique medicinal value. Since ancient times, cinnabar, with its mysterious and beautiful posture, has run through the long river of Chinese civilization and become a valuable substance with both artistic and practical values.
Cinnabar, also known as Cinnabar and cinnabar in ancient times, is a kind of mercuric sulfide mineral with bright red color, delicate texture and touching luster. In ancient times, cinnabar was not only a precious pigment in painting and calligraphy, but also an indispensable sacred thing in Taoist ceremonies. According to Shennong's Classic of Materia Medica, cinnabar has the effects of calming the mind, clearing away heat and toxic materials, and can "nourish the spirit, soothe the soul, benefit qi and improve eyesight", and it can also help the gods not to age after long-term service. In Taoist culture, cinnabar is considered to have a strong fairy spirit, which can ward off evil spirits, eliminate disasters and transform evil spirits.
According to modern scientific research, mercury sulfide, the main component of cinnabar, does have certain medicinal value. Studies have shown that mercury sulfide can inhibit the growth of some bacteria in a small amount and has a certain sedative effect. However, due to its toxicity, it is necessary to strictly control the dosage when using it. In traditional Chinese medicine, cinnabar is used to treat epilepsy, palpitation, insomnia and other diseases. Thousands of years ago, the ancients discovered the efficacy of cinnabar, and constantly verified and improved its use through practice. Every Dragon Boat Festival, the elders always put a little cinnabar on the children's foreheads to bless them to get rid of filth and grow up healthily. This custom not only reflects people's recognition of the medicinal value of cinnabar, but also places good wishes on future generations.
The main producing areas of cinnabar include Hunan, Guizhou and Yunnan, among which the mercury mine in Wanshan, Guizhou is the most famous. According to incomplete statistics, the cinnabar deposits in Wanshan, Guizhou Province account for more than 70% of the proven reserves in China. The cinnabar in these areas is rich in mineral resources and of excellent quality. Since the Tang Dynasty, it has been listed as a tribute and is famous all over the world. Natural cinnabar is different from raw ore cinnabar. The former is high-purity cinnabar powder extracted from raw ore, while the latter retains the natural grain and color of ore. Each one is unique and exudes natural aura and freedom. Natural cinnabar is favored by collectors because of its rare output, wide use and high ornamental value.
However, there are some hidden dangers behind the mysterious veil of cinnabar. Mercury sulfide, the main component of cinnabar, has certain toxicity, which may cause harm to human health if it is not handled properly or exposed in large quantities for a long time. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to high mercury may lead to health problems such as nervous system damage and kidney damage. Therefore, when using cinnabar, we must strictly abide by the safety regulations and operate carefully. When wearing cinnabar jewelry, we should also pay attention to avoid bumping, long-term uncleanness and contact with chemicals to ensure its aesthetics and safety.
Although cinnabar is toxic, its medicinal value cannot be ignored. In traditional Chinese medicine, cinnabar is used to treat epilepsy, palpitation, insomnia and other diseases. Thousands of years ago, the ancients discovered the efficacy of cinnabar, and constantly verified and improved its use through practice. Every Dragon Boat Festival, the elders always put a little cinnabar on the children's foreheads to bless them to get rid of filth and grow up healthily. This custom not only reflects people's recognition of the medicinal value of cinnabar, but also places good wishes on future generations.
Cinnabar is not only a substance, but also a symbol of culture. Its red color represents loyalty, firmness and purity, and is endowed with rich moral connotation. The old saying "near Zhu Zhechi, near Mexico is black" is a vivid portrayal of cinnabar's character. No matter in ancient or modern times, cinnabar has influenced our lives with its unique charm. Today, with the continuous development of science and technology, we look forward to finding safer and more effective ways to use this magical substance and let it continue to benefit mankind in the future.
Generally speaking, cinnabar is a mysterious and beautiful mineral, which not only has rich cultural connotation and medicinal value, but also is an important window for us to explore the mysteries of nature. When using cinnabar, we should keep awe, follow scientific methods and safety norms, and let this ancient substance glow with new brilliance in modern society.