Xiakucao is the dried flower or fruit spike of the Labiatae plant Xiakucao. It has the effects of clearing the liver, relieving fire, dispersing stasis, reducing swelling, and improving eyesight. It can be used to make herbal tea or decoction. So, are there any side effects of drinking Xiakucao tea? What are the contraindications for drinking Xiakucao tea?
Not suitable for patients with Qi deficiency
Xiakucao is bitter and cold, and it has the effects of clearing heat, relieving fire, cooling the liver, and nourishing yin. It can promote the descent of qi. Patients with Qi deficiency are weak and have depleted vital energy. Drinking Xiakucao tea can aggravate the symptoms of Qi deficiency and worsen the condition. Before using Xiakucao, it is advisable to consult a doctor to determine if it is suitable for your constitution.
Not suitable for patients with Spleen and Stomach coldness
Xiakucao is cold in nature and can easily damage the yang qi of the Spleen and Stomach, leading to Spleen and Stomach coldness. Spleen and Stomach coldness is usually derived from Spleen and Stomach qi deficiency. Therefore, drinking Xiakucao tea can worsen the symptoms of Spleen and Stomach coldness, leading to diarrhea and abdominal pain, which is not beneficial for overall health.
Not suitable during menstruation
Xiakucao is cold in nature, and consuming it can cause the body to become cold. Menstrual blood is the shedding of the endometrium, which is expelled by the contraction of the uterus. After consuming cold foods, the abdomen becomes cold, affecting uterine contractions, making it difficult for menstrual blood to flow out and forming blood clots, reducing menstrual flow. In addition, the uterus needs to exert greater force to expel the blood clots, which can easily cause menstrual pain.
Not suitable for pregnant women
Xiakucao is cold in nature, and long-term consumption can lead to a cold constitution, which affects the smooth flow of qi and blood in the body, causing symptoms such as aversion to cold, cold hands and feet, and poor metabolism. Eating cold foods during pregnancy can easily lead to Spleen and Stomach deficiency and coldness in the fetus.
The decoction of Xiakucao (1:50 to 1:200) can cause strong contractions of the isolated uterus of rabbits, indicating that Xiakucao can promote uterine contractions and may cause miscarriage.
Not suitable for long-term use
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that long-term and excessive consumption of cold substances is not beneficial to health. Xiakucao is bitter and cold in nature. If it is consumed in large quantities and for a long time, it may cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and damage to the health of the Spleen and Stomach.
Side effects of Xiakucao
Xiakucao is non-toxic and does not have any toxic effects. However, Xiakucao contains Xiakucao saponin, which can cause some irritation to the intestines and stomach. Some people have abnormal sensitivity in their digestive system and may experience discomfort, such as nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and palpitations. Some people may also be allergic to Xiakucao and may experience symptoms such as rashes, itching all over the body, and skin rashes. Allergic individuals should also avoid consuming Xiakucao.
