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What is ox gallstone?
Ox Gallstone, known as Cattle gallstone, Bovine Gallstone, Bezoar Bovis, Calculus Bovis or Niu Huang in Chinese is sourced from the gallbladder of the Cow or Ox or Bison. The shape of Ox Gallstones varies, but usually are oval or round; it varies in size and the colours are usually yellowish, brown or brown-red, and having a fragile texture.
What is the Ox Gallstone used?
In Chinese medicine, ox gallstones are believed to possess several properties and are often used for a range of medicinal benefits. These may include but not limited to:
Heat-clearing and detoxifying: Ox gallstones are thought to have heat-clearing properties, which means they are used to reduce excess heat in the body and detoxify harmful substances.
Resolving phlegm: In Chinese medicine, ox gallstones are believed to help resolve phlegm accumulation in the body, which is associated with conditions such as coughing, chest congestion, and digestive disorders.
Promoting bile flow: Ox gallstones are used to promote the flow of bile in the liver and gallbladder. This property is thought to aid in digestion and help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and digestive discomfort.
Removing gallstones: Ironically, ox gallstones are also used in Chinese medicine to dissolve and remove gallstones in the gallbladder. They are believed to help break down gallstones and facilitate their elimination from the body.
Anti-inflammatory: Ox gallstones are considered to have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to reduce inflammation in various parts of the body, such as the digestive tract or respiratory system.
How Ox gallstones are collected?
The process of collecting ox gallstones involves several steps:
Slaughtering: Oxen are typically slaughtered for their meat, hides, and other valuable parts. During the slaughtering process, the gallbladder, located near the liver, is carefully removed from the animal's body.
Gallbladder inspection: After removal, the gallbladder is inspected to ensure it is intact and free from any damage. Gallstones are often found within the gallbladder, ranging in size and quantity.
Gallstone extraction: Once the gallbladder is inspected, it is carefully opened, and the gallstones are extracted. This process requires precision and care to avoid damaging the gallstones.
Cleaning and sorting: After extraction, the gallstones are cleaned to remove any remaining tissues or debris. They are then sorted based on their size, shape, and quality.
Drying and storage: The cleaned gallstones are dried thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or decay. Once dried, they are stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready for export or further processing.
Overall, the collection of ox gallstones requires careful handling and attention to detail to ensure the quality and integrity of the final product. It is essential to follow strict hygiene and safety protocols throughout the collection process to minimize contamination and maintain the purity of the gallstones.
Ox Gallstone Occurrence
The occurrence of gallstones in cattle populations are very rare, but can vary depending on various factors such as breed, age, diet, and overall health of the animals. Gallstones are not uncommon in cattle, but they may not be present in every animal.
Studies have suggested that gallstones are more commonly found in older cattle, particularly dairy cows. Factors such as prolonged high-grain diets, obesity, liver disease, and certain metabolic disorders can increase the likelihood of gallstone formation in cattle.
