Many Chinese medicinal herbs are not suitable for consumption on an empty stomach, as it may cause discomfort. Yi Mu Cao (Motherwort) is a commonly used Chinese herb, so can it be consumed on an empty stomach?
Can Yi Mu Cao be consumed on an empty stomach?
It is generally not recommended to consume on an empty stomach.
Yi Mu Cao is a commonly used herb in gynecology. It has the effects of promoting blood circulation, reducing swelling, diuresis, clearing heat, and detoxification. It is often used to treat menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, oliguria, and edema. However, it has a cold nature. If taken on an empty stomach, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and other adverse reactions. Especially for those with weak gastrointestinal systems, taking Yi Mu Cao on an empty stomach may worsen diarrhea or loose stools.
What to do if Yi Mu Cao is consumed on an empty stomach
1. Observe your own reaction
For adults with a healthy gastrointestinal system, taking Yi Mu Cao on an empty stomach may not cause any discomfort, so no special treatment is needed. However, for those with weaker gastrointestinal systems, if diarrhea, loose stools, or other discomfort occurs after taking Yi Mu Cao, and the symptoms are not severe, temporarily stopping the consumption of Yi Mu Cao for a period of time will naturally alleviate the symptoms.
2. Drink warm water
After taking Yi Mu Cao on an empty stomach, if abdominal pain, diarrhea, loose stools, or other discomfort occurs, drinking more warm water can help alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. It can also promote the elimination of residual Yi Mu Cao from the body, in order to prevent the symptoms from worsening.
3. Seek medical attention
If severe abdominal symptoms occur after taking Yi Mu Cao on an empty stomach, or if other discomfort that cannot be self-relieved arises, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately for appropriate treatment such as fluid replacement and anti-diarrheal medications.
When is the best time to consume Yi Mu Cao?
Approximately 30-60 minutes after a meal.
During this time period, the secretion of enzymes in the stomach is more active. Consuming Yi Mu Cao at this time can improve the absorption of its medicinal components by the gastrointestinal system, enhance its effectiveness, and reduce the stimulation of the cold nature on the gastric mucosa, relieving gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms.
Can Yi Mu Cao be consumed during menstruation?
It is not recommended to consume during menstruation.
In general, consuming Yi Mu Cao during menstruation is not recommended. This is because Yi Mu Cao has a good effect on promoting blood circulation and resolving stasis. Consuming it during menstruation may cause abnormal increase in menstrual blood volume, and may even lead to breakthrough bleeding. Even for women with light menstrual flow, consuming Yi Mu Cao during menstruation should be done under the guidance of a doctor. If Yi Mu Cao is used to regulate menstruation, it is recommended to start taking it from day 3 to day 7 of the menstrual cycle and stop when menstruation begins.
Precautions for consuming Yi Mu Cao
1. Not suitable for pregnant women
The active ingredients in Yi Mu Cao have a stimulating effect on the uterus and can promote uterine contractions. Consuming excessive amounts of Yi Mu Cao during pregnancy may cause vaginal bleeding and even threaten miscarriage.
2. Not suitable for those with deficiency in Yin and blood
Yi Mu Cao does not have a blood nourishing effect, but it has a strong blood circulation-promoting effect. Consuming Yi Mu Cao for those with deficiency in Yin and blood will not relieve discomfort, but may worsen symptoms such as pale lips and nails, dry mouth and throat, dizziness, and fatigue.
3. Prevent allergic reactions
Yi Mu Cao is a commonly used herbal plant. Some individuals with sensitive constitutions may have allergic reactions to it, such as chest tightness, rapid breathing, etc. If unsure about personal allergies, it is recommended to consume a small amount first and observe for any discomfort. If no discomfort occurs, it can be consumed.
