Traditional Chinese medicine is highly favored for its abundant health benefits, often used for body maintenance or alleviating discomfort, and even for making medicinal liquor. However, improper usage may not only be ineffective but also harm the liver and kidneys. So, what behaviors may lead to traditional Chinese medicine poisoning? And which medicinal herbs, despite their reputation, are not suitable as tonics?
First, let’s discuss the risk factors for traditional Chinese medicine poisoning:
– Irregular purchase channels: Some traditional Chinese medicines in the market may be contaminated during growth, processing, or storage, including mold or excessive heavy metals. Regular pharmacies and hospitals are usually safer choices. – Confusion of medicinal herb types: Similar names like “Tu San Qi” and “San Qi,” or “He Shou Wu” and “Zhi He Shou Wu” have different effects. Misusing toxic herbs like “Tu San Qi” can threaten health. – Blindly trusting folk remedies: Folk remedies not scientifically verified may be harmful due to improper dosages or unknown toxins. Tailoring prescriptions to individual body constitution and conditions is necessary. – Direct consumption without proper processing: Unprocessed medicinal herbs have higher toxicity; processing reduces toxicity and enhances efficacy for safety. – Improper dosages: Traditional Chinese medicine requires precise dosages; excessive usage can lead to toxicity accumulation and poisoning.
Next, beware of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs unsuitable for daily supplements:
– “Ma Qian Zi”: Contains highly toxic paucineuzelidine, even if used in some Chinese patent medicines, it is not suitable as a supplement on its own. – “He Shou Wu”: Although beneficial for nourishing blood, it contains anthraquinones with high toxicity, especially in raw form, posing risks of severe liver and kidney damage. – “Yi Mu Cao”: Effective in diuresis and reducing swelling, but misuse can lead to toxic reactions like fatigue, limb pain, etc. Caution is required during usage.
In conclusion, traditional Chinese medicine is a double-edged sword; proper use can promote health, while mishandling or overuse may result in serious consequences. Understanding and avoiding the aforementioned risks, selecting appropriate medicinal herbs and methods are crucial for safeguarding personal health.
