Rhizoma Rehmanniae (Shu Di Huang) is a highly valuable traditional Chinese medicine with a sweet taste and a slightly warm nature. It is known for its ability to nourish blood and replenish Yin, as well as tonify the essence and marrow. Some people find it convenient to soak Rhizoma Rehmanniae directly in water for consumption. So, can Rhizoma Rehmanniae be soaked in water and consumed?
Can Rhizoma Rehmanniae be soaked in water for consumption?
Yes, it can be soaked in water, but its effects are better when decocted.
Rhizoma Rehmanniae is a potent tonic herb that nourishes the liver and kidneys, and tonifies blood. If it is only soaked in water, the medicinal components cannot be fully extracted, which reduces the therapeutic effects of Rhizoma Rehmanniae. Generally, this type of tonic herb is recommended to be decocted for at least 30 minutes to fully unleash its medicinal properties. Therefore, it is advisable to decoct Rhizoma Rehmanniae for consumption.
How to decoct Rhizoma Rehmanniae in water
1. Take about 10-15 grams of Rhizoma Rehmanniae.
2. Put the Rhizoma Rehmanniae into a clay pot.
3. Add an appropriate amount of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.
5. Let it cool slightly before drinking.
6. Take 2-3 times a day.
Is it suitable to soak Rhizoma Rehmanniae in water for a long time?
It is not recommended to drink it for a long time.
Rhizoma Rehmanniae has a sticky quality and strong tonic effects. Prolonged consumption may affect the digestive function of the spleen and stomach. If it is used as a treatment for a certain disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor regarding the duration of use or take it together with herbs such as dried tangerine peel and Amomum villosum to enhance the function of the spleen and stomach and prevent adverse effects on the digestive system.
How much Rhizoma Rehmanniae is appropriate for soaking in water?
10-30 grams.
The recommended dosage of Rhizoma Rehmanniae is generally around 10-30 grams. As Rhizoma Rehmanniae has a sticky nature, excessive consumption cannot fully absorb its medicinal properties and may burden the spleen and stomach, which is not beneficial for their health.
Who should not drink Rhizoma Rehmanniae soaked in water?
1. Individuals with weak spleen and stomach
People with symptoms of abdominal distension, loss of appetite, pale complexion, and loose stools due to weak spleen and stomach should not consume Rhizoma Rehmanniae. The sticky nature of Rhizoma Rehmanniae hinders digestion, and taking it can further burden the spleen and stomach, worsening the preexisting symptoms.
2. Individuals with qi stagnation and phlegm accumulation
People with local body lumps, chest tightness, rib pain, and slippery pulse due to qi stagnation and phlegm accumulation should not consume Rhizoma Rehmanniae. The sticky nature of Rhizoma Rehmanniae is not easily digested, and taking it can exacerbate phlegm-related symptoms.
3. Individuals with cold or flu
According to traditional Chinese medicine, it is not advisable to tonify the body during a cold or flu. Rhizoma Rehmanniae is a tonic herb, so taking it during a cold or flu can worsen the symptoms or prolong the illness.
4. Individuals with loose stools or diarrhea
People with symptoms of loose stools or diarrhea should not consume Rhizoma Rehmanniae because of its sticky nature. Taking it can further hinder digestion and aggravate the symptoms of loose stools or diarrhea.
