Can I still drink Chinese medicine that has been stored for 4 months and has developed insects?

Nov 19, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, if Chinese herbal medicine has been stored for four months and contains insects, it should not be consumed. If the herbs have been kept in a damp environment for four months, they may deteriorate and become infested with insects. In such cases, some of the herbs might also develop mold. At this point, the herbs have likely spoiled and could harbor large numbers of insect eggs.

Generally speaking, if traditional Chinese medicine has been stored for four months and contains insects, it should not be consumed. The detailed explanation is as follows:

If the traditional Chinese medicine has been stored in a damp environment for four months, it may lead to deterioration and the presence of insects. In some cases, the medicine might also develop mold. At this point, the medicine is likely spoiled and could harbor large numbers of insect eggs. Consuming such medicine would allow these eggs to enter the patient's stomach, which not only fails to treat the illness but may also cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. Therefore, it should not be taken.

Patients are advised to seek medical attention promptly if they experience any discomfort after taking traditional Chinese medicine. During treatment, a light diet is recommended. Patients can eat foods such as millet porridge and vegetable porridge, and should avoid spicy and irritating foods like chili peppers and garlic.