Can I drink Banlangen for excessive internal heat (shanghuo)?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
It is acceptable to take Banlangen Granules for "shang huo" (heatiness), as Banlangen Granules have the effect of clearing heat. During medication, smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided, as well as seafood, since these may worsen the patient's condition and interfere with the effectiveness of the medicine. Children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should take this medication only under a doctor's guidance. Individuals allergic to this medicine should use it with caution.
Isatis root (Banlangen) is a traditional Chinese medicine that falls under the category of bitter and cold herbs in TCM, known for its effects of clearing heat, detoxifying the body, cooling the blood, and relieving sore throat. So, can you take Banlangen when experiencing "heatiness" (excess internal heat)?
Can You Take Banlangen for Heatiness?
Yes, you can take Banlangen granules for heatiness. Banlangen granules have properties that help reduce internal heat and can alleviate symptoms such as sore throat and swelling caused by excessive internal heat. During treatment, patients should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, and should not consume seafood such as fish and shrimp, as these foods may worsen the condition and interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. Children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should use this medication only under medical supervision. Individuals who are allergic to this product or have an allergic constitution should use it with caution.
Based on the characteristics of Banlangen, it is feasible for managing symptoms of heatiness. However, it only addresses the symptoms rather than the underlying cause. Deficiency-type "fire" (deficiency heat) is primarily due to insufficient yin and body fluids, leading to uncontrolled yang activity and excessive deficiency fire. Therefore, treatments should focus on nourishing yin and subduing hyperactive yang.
Although Banlangen has detoxifying properties, it is generally unnecessary to take it specifically for heatiness. Moreover, as a traditional Chinese herb, Banlangen must be metabolized by the liver and kidneys before being eliminated from the body. Long-term use will inevitably increase the burden on these organs. While it may offer some protective effects against illness to a certain extent, it can easily irritate the stomach and potentially harm the body. We hope this answer has been helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
