Parts Most Frequently Used: Dried Sloughed Skin

Flavors/Temps: Sweet, Salty, Neutral

Caution: Do not use when pregnant.

History/Folklore: The ancient observations of a snake’s ability to move fast and flexibly (both above and below ground), shed its skin, and be poisonous, all led to it being studied and revered. Because of these traits, it has been used medicinally to treat arthritis, joint pain, and a wide variety of skin problems. It does this effectively and is still used today in several Chinese formulas to treat these conditions.

It is considered an excellent remedy for stubborn dry scale-like skin. While the snakes are raised and harvested in China for this purpose, using the powdered form is recommended as less can be used helping to reduce the number of snakes used and thereby preserving the species.

The Chinese use snakeskin successfully to reduce the effects of cysticercosis of the nervous systems, with symptoms of tremors, aphasia and headaches.

In the 1940’s, the Chinese used snakeskin to treat post-polio syndrome. The success of these treatments, inspired Dr. Murray Sanders, nominated for the Nobel Prize in medicine, to begin studying cobra venom as a possible cure for Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS), which has similar symptoms. He too documented success using the Cobra venom therapy.  Snake skin, snakes and snake venoms are now being studied as possible cures for multiple sclerosis and HIV.

In Native American cultures snake medicine people are very rare. Their initiation involves living through multiple snake bites and transmuting the poisons.

Snakes have a long history as a symbol of sexuality, transcending death, mother earth, the devil, wisdom, healing, initiation, elusiveness, transmutation, manipulating lightening, creative power, immortality, psychic energy, and primitive or elemental energies.  When snake enters your life, your intuition will be strengthened. They are the guardians of sacred places and the keeper of concealed knowledge.