today we will explore an ancient and mysterious mineral – cinnabar. Also known as cinnarite, cinnabar is famous for its bright red or vermilion color and metallic luster, with the chemical formula HgS, a hardness of 2-2.5, and a specific gravity of 8.1-8.2. As the main source of mercury, cinnabar has been widely used throughout history, from pigments to traditional Chinese medicine, and as a material for talismans. However, cinnabar is also a toxic substance, which requires us to approach it with caution. So, can we wear cinnabar? Let’s unravel this mystery.
The History and Application of Cinnabar: The application of cinnabar in Chinese history dates back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties, when it was used to decorate bronze ware and pottery. According to “Compendium of Materia Medica,” cinnabar has effects such as calming the spirit, warding off evil, improving vision, and strengthening energy, and can be used to treat conditions like insomnia, epilepsy, and sores. In addition, cinnabar has been used as a material for talismans to exorcise evil spirits and ensure safety.
The Toxicity of Cinnabar: Cinnabar contains mercury, a heavy metal element that has a strong affinity for the human body and can enter the body through various routes, accumulating in organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain, causing acute or chronic poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include oral ulcers, gum bleeding, bad breath, loose teeth, muscle tremors, memory loss, mood instability, neurasthenia, headaches, insomnia, blurred vision, skin allergies, liver and kidney damage, and can even lead to death in severe cases.
Mercury in Cinnabar: Mercury in cinnabar mainly exists in the form of mercury sulfide, which is relatively stable and not easily absorbed by the human body, making the toxicity of cinnabar low. However, if cinnabar is affected by high temperatures, acids, bases, oxidizing agents, etc., it will release free mercury or mercury vapor, which are more easily absorbed by the human body and more toxic.
Can We Wear Cinnabar? In conclusion, we do not recommend wearing cinnabar. Although cinnabar has a long history and culture, and certain medicinal and protective effects, it is also a toxic substance that can cause serious harm to the body if not used or handled correctly.
If you insist on wearing cinnabar, please pay attention to the following points:
- Choose high-quality cinnabar to avoid impurities or adulterated cinnabar.
- Ensure that cinnabar is intact and not broken or crushed.
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures, acids, bases, oxidizing agents, etc.
- Prevent children or pets from coming into contact with cinnabar.
- Regularly check your health condition and seek medical attention if you feel unwell.
- Store cinnabar in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion: Cinnabar is a mercury-containing mineral with a long history and culture, and certain medicinal and protective effects, but it is also a toxic substance. Therefore, we do not recommend wearing cinnabar. If you must wear it, please also pay attention to the methods of use and storage to protect your health and the health of others.