Ox Bezoar Is Not a Cure: Long-Term or High-Dose Usage May Harm the Brain and Nervous System

Bovis Calculus: Historical Use and Potential Risks

Bovis Calculus (牛黄), a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history, is valued for its heat-clearing, detoxifying, antispasmodic, and orifice-opening effects and is widely used in various herbal formulations. However, modern research has revealed that while Bovis Calculus has medicinal value, long-term or high-dose use, especially of natural sources of uncertain origin, may pose potential health risks. One major risk is the high concentration of bilirubin, which can damage the brain and nervous system, making cautious use essential.

1. Heavy Metal Risks in Bovis Calculus: Potential Liver and Kidney Damage

Studies show that trace heavy metals, such as lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As), are often detected in Bovis Calculus. These metals are potentially toxic, and long-term intake may burden the liver and kidney detoxification systems, even causing chronic poisoning. Therefore, individuals who consume Bovis Calculus frequently for health purposes should remain highly vigilant.

In contrast, porcupine bezoars (箭猪枣) derive their core efficacy not from amino acids but from natural active ingredients such as bromelain and tannic acid. These compounds demonstrate significant advantages in promoting wound healing and modulating immunity while maintaining higher overall safety.

Dr Victor's porcupine bezoars have undergone scientific validation and authoritative laboratory testing to ensure they are free of heavy metals and harmful microorganisms while being rich in natural active components. They do not burden the liver and, thanks to their detoxifying, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, effectively support internal balance and immune system function, making them suitable for daily consumption.

2. Bilirubin in Bovis Calculus: Potential Neurotoxicity

The main bioactive components of natural Bovis Calculus (NCB) are bilirubin and bile acids. Although bilirubin is important for normal physiological function, elevated concentrations may act as a “silent killer” for the nervous system.

High bilirubin levels can cause pathological jaundice, leading to hearing impairment, motor dysfunction, and memory decline. In neonates and experimental animal models, elevated bilirubin significantly reduces the number of ganglion neurons and nerve fibers and can damage cochlear and inner ear hair cells.

3. Bilirubin's Impact on Brain Development

Bilirubin is highly toxic to specific brain neurons. In cerebellar granule neurons, concentrations between 4.3–17.1 μmol/L markedly reduce cell viability, activate the NF-κB signaling pathway, trigger inflammation, and induce apoptosis. Bilirubin also promotes the expression of apoptosis-related genes, further driving programmed cell death.

These findings remind us that although bilirubin is a normal metabolic product, under certain conditions and concentrations, its toxicity can interfere with nervous system development and stability.

Therefore, in pursuit of health, it is essential to choose scientifically validated and safe natural medicines. For example, porcupine bezoars contain almost no bilirubin, no detectable heavy metals or pharmaceutical residues, and are free of side effects, making them ideal for long-term use in chronic disease prevention and self-healing support.

References:

1. Dr Victor, The Revered Book of Porcupine Bezoar
2. Xu, K. et al., A review of the Bovis Calculus's intervention mechanism and clinical application in ischemic stroke
3. Yu, Z. J., Calculus bovis: A review of the traditional usages, origin, chemistry, pharmacological activities and toxicology

Written by Dr Victor Team