Briefly Describe the Traditional Preparation Method of Mercury in Mongolian Medicine

Objective: This study aims to review the traditional preparation methods and clinical applications of mercury in Mongolian medicine through a literature review. Methods: Ancient and modern literature on the preparation of mercury were reviewed, and the recorded preparation methods in the literature were summarized and organized. The clinical applications were also briefly described. Results: The traditional preparation methods of mercury in Mongolian medicine can be divided into two parts: preparation before processing and specific processing methods. The preparation before processing includes steps such as removing impurities and reducing the weight of mercury. The "Four Parts Ganlu" emphasizes the toxicity of mercury due to its rust (impurities) and weight. Specific processing methods include hot processing, cold processing, slow processing, and quick processing. According to the clinical application records in the literature, hot processing is widely used and still in use today. As a commonly used mineral medicine in Mongolian medicine, mercury is found in various compound formulations recorded in the literature, with a focus on diseases such as "bile", lymphatic, and brain diseases. The proportion of mercury used varies significantly. For example, the preparation of mercury in the Mongen Wusu-18 pill has a higher content and is widely used with significant effects. In addition, mercury is also used in formulations such as Qishiwu Pearl Pill, Ershiwu Songshi Pill, and Ershiwu Coral Pill. Conclusion: The review and study of the traditional preparation methods of mercury in Mongolian medicine can contribute to the standardization and normalization of processing techniques and provide reference materials for the safe application and formulation of mercury processing products.