Ginseng is a highly nourishing substance in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to replenish qi, nourish yin, and clear heat while promoting saliva production. In the hot summer weather, people often experience fatigue and irritability. Drinking a cup of ginseng tea can help clear heat and relieve fatigue. However, some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort after consuming ginseng. So why does ginseng cause diarrhea?
Poor gastrointestinal health
Ginseng has a cooling nature and is not suitable for people with weak spleen and stomach or those who are sensitive to cold. Consuming ginseng can easily cause diarrhea for individuals with existing gastrointestinal issues, as the stimulation from the cooling properties aggravates the condition.
Excessive consumption of ginseng
Ginseng is a cooling substance and is suitable for conditions such as dry mouth, restlessness, and physical weakness caused by excess heat. It is not advisable to consume a large amount of ginseng at once. The recommended dosage ranges from 3-6 grams per serving. Overconsumption not only fails to provide the desired nourishing effects but can also lead to symptoms such as abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Inappropriate timing for consuming ginseng
Ginseng is not suitable for individuals with dampness-related conditions. In extremely cold weather, the body is more susceptible to coldness than one may realize, resulting in a weakened immune system. Consuming ginseng at this time will only worsen the situation and potentially cause symptoms such as diarrhea.
Intolerance to ginseng
Some individuals may experience symptoms such as chills, decreased body temperature, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after consuming ginseng. Others may experience menstrual pain or delayed menstruation. Allergic reactions, characterized by scattered blisters of varying sizes on the limbs, itching, and abnormal sensations, can also occur. These blisters will naturally disappear upon discontinuation of ginseng consumption.
Who is suitable for consuming ginseng
If you experience symptoms of excess heat, such as dry mouth, restlessness, hot palms, frequent fatigue, and weakness, using ginseng or similar supplements can help regulate your condition.
Contraindications of ginseng consumption
1. Do not consume ginseng with strong tea or coffee. The tannic acid in tea can destroy the active ingredients in ginseng, and coffee can affect the absorption of ginseng.
2. Avoid consuming ginseng with radishes. Radishes cause gas, while ginseng replenishes qi. Concurrent consumption of both can lead to allergic reactions.
3. Individuals with poor appetite, excessive phlegm, sticky mouth, and aversion to cold or those who experience diarrhea from consuming raw food should avoid ginseng.
4. Although ginseng is nourishing, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption can cause symptoms such as dry mouth, chest tightness, and abdominal pain.
