Pangolin scales are a traditional Chinese medicine rich in amino acids and trace elements, widely used since ancient times. However, as pangolins are now classified as nationally protected animals, they have become increasingly rare. To preserve cultural heritage, we should still study and understand the efficacy and uses of pangolin scales. Below, an expert will provide an introduction.
The pangolin we discuss here refers not to the entire animal but specifically to its outer scales. These scales, when processed, can be made into pangolin scales. Below, experts will elaborate on the specific benefits and functions of pangolin.
Benefits and Uses of Pangolin Scales
1. Treating Breast and Thyroid Conditions: Processed pangolin scales are most commonly used clinically for breast ailments. Beyond promoting lactation, they are widely applied for breast diseases. These scales possess properties that soften hardened masses and reduce swelling, making them clinically useful for thyroid disorders such as goiter, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and enlarged lymph nodes.
2. For treating arthritis, processed pangolin scales have traditionally been used for rheumatic joint conditions. Studies confirm their anti-inflammatory effects. Clinically, they can be used for ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc., often combined with ginger rhizome, acanthopanax root bark, and polygonum cuspidatum. Given the abundance of anti-inflammatory and analgesic Chinese herbs, processed pangolin scales serve as a backup option, reserved for cases where they are the most suitable.
3. Pao Jia Pian is reserved for specific circumstances. It possesses blood-activating properties and exhibits anticoagulant effects.Most herbs in the blood-activating and stasis-resolving category possess anticoagulant properties. We typically select herbs that also exhibit immunosuppressive effects. Paojia Pian is reserved for specific scenarios, such as overlapping systemic lupus erythematosus and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroid enlargement, rheumatoid arthritis accompanied by mammary gland disorders, or concurrent vasculitis and leukopenia.
4. For chronic liver disease, Pao Jia Pian combined with Zhi Bie Jia treats chronic hepatitis and early cirrhosis by addressing hardening and swelling through TCM pattern differentiation. For HBeAg-positive, HBV-DNA-positive patients, it should be used with liver-soothing and qi-regulating herbs like Chai Hu and Yu Jin, or with Zhi Bie Jia.
The above explains the efficacy and functions of pangolin as described by experts. While we have learned much about its benefits, it is crucial to note that pangolin itself contains toxins and must undergo processing before use. Improper application can cause significant side effects, so dosage must be strictly controlled.