WHAT IS SULFUR?

Sulfur can be found in its natural rock form or as an extract from sulfur-containing minerals.

In the Compendium of Materia Medica, a classic work on Chinese medicinal herbs by Li Shizhen, sulfur is described as having a sour odor, while being warm and toxic. The same work states that sulfur can be applied externally as a detoxifier; used to kill insects and to treat skin conditions; and used, after refinement, for internal applications. The work also states that, when burnt, the toxicity of sulfur is intensified due to chemical reactions.

THE SIDE EFFECTS OF SULFUR-FUMIGATED CHINESE MEDICINE

The Prescriptions and Herbal Pharmacy of Chinese Medicine describes sulfur as possessing a sour odor, while also being warm and toxic. The work states that sulfur can be filtered by the kidneys and cardiac organs and that, when passing through the body’s organs, sulfur dioxides and sulfites can lead to allergies, breathlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, and damage to one’s liver, kidneys and overall vitality.

DAMAGE TO HEALTH CAUSED BY OVER-CONSUMPTION OF SULFUR-FUMIGATED CHINESE MEDICINE

Currently, Chinese medicines on the market that have been subject to high levels of sulfur fumigation not only cause diarrhea, but may also contain increased levels of arsenic. Sulfur fumigation can damage a product’s useful ingredients and therefore reduce a product’s effectiveness. However, more serious is that each improper sulfur fumigation process increases a product’s arsenic content, which is harmful to human health.   

INFERIOR SULFUR-FUMIGATED CHINESE MEDICINE

Sulfur-fumigated medicines are prevalent, with some liquids on the market simply being unfit for consumption. When a medicinal liquid tastes sour, most consumers will assume this to be the natural taste of the Chinese medicine and continue to drink the liquid, unaware of the fact that the product has been damaged.

HOW CAN I DETECT SULFUR FUMIGATION?

Appearance: Whitish, fine product is powdery with indistinct texture and distinct color

Smell: Product has lost natural fragrance and emits strong, sour smell (smell of sulfur)

Taste: Product tastes sour, even when the ingredients themselves are not sour