Can Huoxiang (Agastache) and Suzi (Perilla seed) steeped in water treat reflux esophagitis?
Apr 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Soaking Agastache and Perilla seeds in water generally cannot treat reflux esophagitis. Reflux esophagitis is an inflammatory condition caused by the backflow of food from the gastrointestinal tract into the esophagus, and endoscopic examination usually reveals damage or ulceration of the esophageal mucosa. Agastache and Perilla seeds do not possess properties that eliminate esophageal inflammation or promote the healing of the esophageal mucosa, and therefore are ineffective for treatment.
Su Zi usually refers to white perilla seeds. Drinking a decoction made from Agastache (Huoxiang) and white perilla seeds generally cannot treat reflux esophagitis, as it lacks anti-inflammatory effects, does not promote mucosal healing, nor improves esophageal acid clearance function. The details are as follows:
Agastache is primarily used to relieve vomiting, alleviate summer heat, and resolve dampness, while white perilla seeds mainly function to moisten the intestines and relieve constipation, lower qi, and reduce phlegm. Reflux esophagitis is an inflammatory condition caused by impaired esophageal acid clearance, disruption of the esophageal anti-reflux barrier, and the backflow of gastrointestinal contents into the esophagus. Endoscopic examination typically reveals damage or ulceration of the esophageal mucosa. Although Agastache and white perilla seeds may help alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, they do not eliminate esophageal inflammation or promote mucosal repair; therefore, they are not effective for treating this condition.
Under a doctor's guidance, identifying the exact cause and severity of the condition through appropriate diagnostic tests and then implementing targeted treatment can usually improve therapeutic outcomes.
