What are the benefits and side effects of drinking water infused with胖大海 (Sterculia lychnophora)?

 　　Soaking胖大海 (Sterculia lychnophora) in water for consumption has various benefits such as clearing lungs and resolving phlegm, relieving sore throat and improving voice, and moistening the intestines to promote bowel movements. However, excessive use may lead to side effects including spleen and stomach damage, depletion of yang energy, and loose stools. Detailed explanations are as follows:
　　I. Benefits
　　1. Clearing Lungs and Resolving Phlegm
　　Pangdahai is sweet in taste and cold in nature, entering the lung meridian, thus having the effect of clearing lungs and resolving phlegm.
　　2. Relieving Sore Throat and Improving Voice
　　Pangdahai can be used to treat symptoms such as throat discomfort, sore throat, and hoarseness caused by excessive lung heat.
　　3. Moistening Intestines and Promoting Bowel Movements
　　Pangdahai enters the large intestine meridian and can help relieve dryness and constipation.
　　II. Side Effects
　　1. Spleen and Stomach Damage
　　Due to its cold nature, long-term use of Pangdahai may impair the spleen and stomach.
　　2. Depletion of Yang Energy
　　Excessive use of Pangdahai may allow coldness to invade the body, easily damaging yang energy.
　　3. Loose Stools
　　Patients with a constitution characterized by spleen and stomach deficiency-cold may develop loose stools or abdominal pain if they consume it over a prolonged period.
　　In addition to the above benefits and side effects, Pangdahai also has the benefit of promoting fluid production to quench thirst, but may cause reduced appetite as a side effect. Medication should be used under the guidance of a qualified physician; self-medication without professional advice is not recommended.