Chinese herbal medicine decoction utensils, throughout the ages, have emphasized the use of sand pots or clay jars because sand pots have even and gentle heat transfer, are resistant to high heat, and allow the medicine to be fully heated and dissolved. At the same time, sand pots are inexpensive and economically practical to use. Moreover, sand pots or clay jars are made of silicate materials with stable chemical properties. They do not affect the synthesis and dissolution of Chinese herbal medicine in complex chemical reactions during decoction, resulting in high-quality medicinal liquid.
Disadvantages of Sand Pots
Sand pots also have disadvantages. They are prone to breakage and can crack and leak water when overheated. Therefore, many people now choose enamel or stainless steel pots for decoction, which is also acceptable.
Avoid Using Iron Utensils
It is particularly important to note that iron utensils, such as iron pots, should be avoided for decoction. Iron pots have highly unstable chemical properties and are prone to oxidation. Meanwhile, the chemical components contained in Chinese herbal medicine are very complex. Almost all Chinese herbal compound preparations contain fresh substances, flavonoids, glycosides, organic acids, and other components. These components can react chemically with iron, leading to the formation of insoluble complexes, which can affect the therapeutic effect of Chinese herbal medicine. In severe cases, the medicine solution can produce deep purple or dark green precipitates, causing nausea, vomiting, and other reactions after ingestion.
Avoid Using Copper Pots
Using copper pots for decoction is also not recommended because trace amounts of copper can be leached into the medicine during the decoction process. This can lead to chemical changes in some components of the Chinese herbal medicine and the formation of copper carbonate (basic copper carbonate), which is harmful to the human body.
In summary, it is best to use sand pots for decoction. Enamel or stainless steel pots can be used as alternatives. It is absolutely not advisable to use iron pots, copper pots, or other metal utensils for decoction.
