The gypsum powder used to make tofu is cooked gypsum, i.e., calcined gypsum of traditional Chinese medicine. The amount of calcined gypsum used in making tofu is relatively small, and moderate use of it generally does not cause any major harm to the human body, but if it is taken inappropriately, it may damage yang qi and harm the body.
According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, calcined gypsum is sweet, pungent, astringent, cold in nature, and belongs to the lung and stomach meridians. It has the efficacy of collecting dampness, regenerating muscles, astringent sores, and stopping bleeding. Calcined gypsum, as a topical Chinese medicine, has a good therapeutic effect on ulcers that don’t converge, eczema that is itchy, scalded by fire and water, and bleeding from traumatic injuries.
When using calcined gypsum as tofu, most people do not experience discomfort. Adverse reactions and contraindications to the use of Calcined Gypsum are not known. Prompt medical attention is recommended in the event of bodily discomfort.