Most Chinese herbal medicines taste bitter and are difficult to swallow. Sometimes, patients have to take multiple doses, and some people really struggle to swallow it, with a frown and tears.
Based on the guidance of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and my years of experience taking Chinese herbal medicine, I have summarized six methods to reduce the bitterness of Chinese herbal medicine, making it easier to take.
Introduction to the methods of reducing the bitterness of Chinese herbal medicine:
① Mastering the timing of medication
Within a 24-hour period, there are two "golden periods" for drug absorption by the body, one from 8 am to 10 am, and the other from 2 pm to 3 pm. Bitter Chinese herbal medicine can be taken during these times after meals.
② Mastering the temperature of the medicine
The administration of Chinese herbal medicine follows the principle of "hot for cold, cold for hot". However, this principle can be disregarded when taking bitter herbal medicine. Research has shown that the tongue is more sensitive to temperatures above 37°C, so the temperature of the herbal medicine decoction should be controlled between 15°C and 37°C. This can prevent burning the mouth and help reduce the bitterness and astringency of the medicine.
③ Mastering the location of holding and swallowing
Studies have shown that the taste receptors for bitterness are mainly concentrated in the front half of the tongue, with the tip of the tongue being the most sensitive.
Therefore, after the liquid medicine enters the mouth, it is best to quickly store it at the back of the tongue, naturally swallow it, or use a spoon to directly send the liquid medicine to the back of the tongue and swallow it.
④ Mastering the speed of medication
The longer the liquid medicine stays in the mouth, the more bitter it tastes. Therefore, it is recommended to take bitter herbal medicine quickly and swiftly, without lingering in the mouth.
⑤ Drink an appropriate amount of warm water after taking the medicine
This not only helps the gastrointestinal tract absorb the medicine, but also to some extent alleviates the bitterness of the liquid medicine.
⑥ Adding condiments
Adding honey, sugar, etc. to the bitter medicine can help mask the taste. However, for bitter herbs like Coptis chinensis and Radix Scutellariae, it is best to use minimal or no condiments. If necessary, licorice or jujube can be added for better taste.
