Last year, I had a lack of breast milk during my breastfeeding period, so I bought a lot of Chinese Dodder Seed. I still have a lot left and now my friend is also facing the problem of insufficient breast milk. I want to give her the Chinese Dodder Seed, but I don't know if it has expired. Can you please tell me if Chinese Dodder Seed has an expiration date?
Does Chinese Dodder Seed have an expiration date?
Yes, Chinese Dodder Seed has an expiration date.
Although many people know that Chinese Dodder Seed has the effect of diuresis and promoting lactation, they are not sure if it has an expiration date. In fact, like any other food, Chinese Dodder Seed also has a certain shelf life. However, compared to other common ingredients, Chinese Dodder Seed has a slightly longer shelf life.
How long is the shelf life of Chinese Dodder Seed?
The shelf life is about 2 years.
Chinese Dodder Seed is the pith extracted from the stems of the dodder plant, which belongs to the family Cuscutaceae. It is a kind of herbal medicine, and the shelf life of most herbal medicines is about 2 years. However, the storage time also depends on the dryness of the Chinese Dodder Seed. If it contains less moisture and is stored properly, the shelf life is usually longer. If there is more residual moisture in the Chinese Dodder Seed, the shelf life will be relatively shorter.
How to determine if Chinese Dodder Seed has expired?
1. Color
The surface of Chinese Dodder Seed is usually white or pale yellow, with transverse and longitudinal grooves. If there are green or white mold spots on the surface of Chinese Dodder Seed, it means that it has expired.
2. Odor
Fresh Chinese Dodder Seed has no noticeable odor. If there is a musty smell coming from the Chinese Dodder Seed at home, it means that it has expired.
3. Taste
Fresh Chinese Dodder Seed has a mild and tasteless flavor. If there is a sour or other unpleasant taste when chewing the Chinese Dodder Seed, it means that it has expired.
Can expired Chinese Dodder Seed still be consumed?
It is not recommended to consume expired Chinese Dodder Seed.
Just like other foods, expired Chinese Dodder Seed is not recommended for consumption. It may contain mold or other harmful microorganisms, which can not only fail to achieve the expected therapeutic effect but also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal reactions. Therefore, it is advisable not to continue consuming expired Chinese Dodder Seed.
How to store Chinese Dodder Seed?
Chinese Dodder Seed is the pith of the dodder plant, which contains more moisture and is prone to mold. Therefore, it is important to store it properly to prevent moisture and mold.
Storage at room temperature
Place the Chinese Dodder Seed in a clean plastic bag, seal it tightly, and then store it in a dry and ventilated place, avoiding moisture and direct sunlight.
Refrigerator storage
First, pack the Chinese Dodder Seed in a clean plastic bag, then seal it in a container to prevent moisture from entering, and finally, place it in the refrigerator's refrigeration compartment.
