I've been having a bit of diarrhea recently and I'm wondering if it's related to my consumption of Cistanche. Does Cistanche cause diarrhea?
Does Cistanche cause diarrhea?
It is possible.
Cistanche is a highly valued medicinal herb with a sweet taste and warm, salty nature. It has the effects of nourishing kidney essence, enhancing the production of sperm and blood, and moisturizing the intestinal tract. Due to its ability to moisturize and smooth the intestines, the active ingredients in Cistanche can inhibit the absorption of water in the large intestine, promote the peristalsis of the small intestine, and help with bowel movements. Generally, individuals with a healthy spleen and stomach will not experience diarrhea after consuming Cistanche. However, for those with weak spleen and stomach, taking Cistanche may aggravate the stimulation to the digestive system and trigger or worsen diarrhea symptoms.
What to do if Cistanche causes diarrhea
1. Stop taking Cistanche
If diarrhea symptoms occur after taking Cistanche, it is advisable to stop taking it to avoid exacerbating the symptoms. If the diarrhea is mild, stopping the consumption of Cistanche for a period of time will usually lead to the natural disappearance of diarrhea symptoms without the need for any special treatment.
2. Drink diluted saltwater
If diarrhea symptoms have already occurred, it is recommended to drink diluted saltwater as much as possible. This can help dilute the concentration of Cistanche in the body, prevent further aggravation of the symptoms, and prevent dehydration.
3. Seek medical attention
If diarrhea symptoms are severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately for symptomatic treatment such as anti-diarrheal medication and fluid replacement, in order to prevent further aggravation of the symptoms or other adverse consequences.
What to eat with Cistanche to avoid diarrhea
In general, individuals with normal spleen and stomach function will not experience diarrhea when consuming an appropriate amount of Cistanche. However, for those with spleen deficiency and diarrhea, it is generally not recommended to take Cistanche. If it is necessary to take it due to the condition, it is advisable to consult a doctor and take it together with other astringent and solidifying drugs to reduce or avoid diarrhea.
Precautions when taking Cistanche
1. Pay attention to the dosage
The usual medicinal dosage of Cistanche is 6-9 grams. Since Cistanche is a tonic medicine with a sweet, salty, and warm nature, excessive intake may result in incomplete absorption of its medicinal properties by the body and may even cause symptoms of excessive internal heat.
2. For those with kidney Yin deficiency
Cistanche has the effect of warming and tonifying the kidney Yang. Taking it by those with kidney Yin deficiency can aggravate symptoms such as restlessness in the chest, insomnia, frequent dreaming, and a red tongue with little coating.
3. For minors
Cistanche is a potent tonic medicine. Minors are still in the stage of physical and mental development, so taking Cistanche is not conducive to their growth and development. Long-term and excessive consumption may even lead to precocious puberty.
How to consume Cistanche
Cistanche Decoction
1. Take about 6 grams of Cistanche and put it in a clay pot.
2. Add an appropriate amount of water.
3. Boil on high heat and then simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Filter out the residue and drink the decoction.
Cistanche Soup
Ingredients: 1 pair of lamb kidneys, 20 grams of Cistanche, ginger, and salt in appropriate amounts.
1. Blanch the lamb kidneys in boiling water to remove the odor, remove the tendons and bones, and wash them before slicing.
2. Put the Cistanche in a cheesecloth bag.
3. Put the lamb kidneys, Cistanche, and ginger in a soup pot, and add an appropriate amount of water.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer until the soup is cooked.
5. Remove the cheesecloth bag and add salt to taste.
Cistanche Wine Soaking
1. Put 20 grams of Cistanche and 20 grams of Chinese wolfberry into a glass bottle.
2. Pour in about 500 milliliters of white wine.
3. Seal the bottle, shake well, and store it in a cool place.
4. After 15-30 days, the wine can be opened and consumed.
5. Take 20 milliliters at a time, 1-2 times a day.
