|
 Spodumene
LITHIUM ALUMINIUM SILICATE
Spodumene is a source of
lithium, a non-essential mineral that is used in the form of lithium salts
such as lithium carbonate to treat manic depression in orthodox medicine.
Found as far and wide as Afghanistan, Brazil, and California,
crystals of Spodumene can be as long as 6 m (18 ft) and weigh several tons.
The crystals are a source of the mineral lithium, which has not yet been proved to be an essential part of the diet,
but is an important medicine for severe mental illness.
PARTS USED
Lithium to make other lithium salts.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Lithium.
ACTIONS
Mood regulating.
MEDICINAL USE
Lithium salts, particularly lithium carbonate,
are given in orthodox medicine for manic depression and to control aggressive behaviour. Lithium is very toxic,
so blood levels of the drugs have to be carefully monitored.
PREPARATIONS
Pharmaceutical preparations.
|
