Traditional Chinese medicine culture has been circulating in our country for a long time, it can treat many diseases. There are many areas about Chinese medicine that foreigners have not yet understood, and in many places, Western medicine cannot replace it. Also, because there are indeed experts in the folk, Chinese medicine has treated many people’s diseases, sometimes even exaggeratedly promoted. Many people have misconceptions about Chinese medicine, thinking that it has no side effects. Does taking Chinese medicine have no side effects? Chinese medicine does not conceal, teaching you to scientifically understand Chinese medicine.
Some Chinese medicines contain ingredients like realgar, poppy shell, cinnabar, etc., which are not suitable for long-term use and can damage the kidneys, skin, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, and nervous system. The most significant side effect of Chinese medicine is its impact on kidney health. Many Chinese herbs contain a substance, aristolochic acid or alkaloids, which are harmful to kidney health. All medicine has its toxic side, as the old ancestors have said. Even though Chinese medicine is very particular about treating the specific condition and customizing treatment based on the patient’s symptoms, there may still be side effects even if there are no apparent problems.
Long-term consumption of Chinese medicine can also have side effects, some people may experience dizziness, and lower back pain. Do not stubbornly think that the longer the time taking Chinese medicine, the better the effect. The specific results must be proportional to its effectiveness time; it is necessary to follow the doctor’s guidance for medication.
Western medicine is mainly produced through synthesis, purification, and technological methods, with many clinical trials involving cells, animals, volunteers, layer by layer screening, further precision, and finally being marketed. Therefore, Western medicine comes with its instruction manual, detailing side effects, contraindications, and more.
However, Chinese medicine lacks in this aspect, this is not to denigrate it but to state the facts. Many Chinese medicine formulations are derived from previous experiences and lack specific clinical trial evidence. The efficacy of various Chinese medicines differs, and the combination of these medicines may have other implications on the patient. Factors such as good body constitution, toxicity of the medicine itself, incorrect processing methods, poor dosage control, mixing of formulas, patient constitution, skill level of the Chinese medicine practitioner, etc., all affect the outcome, making it challenging to observe. Consequently, some toxic side effects may be overlooked, leading to the spread of rumors that Chinese medicine has no side effects.
What should be considered while taking Chinese medicine?
It is best to have a light diet because highly stimulating, greasy, or extremely cold foods can counteract the effects of Chinese medicine. Also, avoid eating seafood as it conflicts with Chinese medicine. Some people find Chinese medicine bitter and then consume garlic or ginger. However, these are also stimulating foods that are detrimental to the effectiveness of the medicine.
Above are the explanations about Chinese medicine. Regardless, when using it, medication should be done scientifically under the guidance of a doctor to avoid any harm to the body from taking the wrong medicine.
