What are the禁忌 (taboos) of eating shepherd's purse?

Generally speaking,禁忌 regarding the consumption of shepherd's purse (shepherd’s needle, *Capsella bursa-pastoris*) include avoiding simultaneous intake with animal liver, refraining from consumption by individuals with a cold body constitution, avoidance by patients with kidney stones, cautious consumption by pregnant women, and cautious consumption by infants and young children. If any discomfort occurs after eating shepherd's purse, prompt medical attention is recommended. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Avoid consuming with animal liver: Animal livers such as pork or chicken liver are rich in iron. Shepherd's purse contains plant acids. Consuming both together may hinder iron absorption, thereby affecting nutrient uptake.

2. Not suitable for those with a cold body constitution: Shepherd's purse is considered a cooling vegetable. For individuals with a cold constitution—especially those experiencing indigestion—consuming it may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, exacerbating physical discomfort and potentially causing symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

3. Kidney stone patients should avoid consumption: Shepherd's purse contains oxalic acid and oxalates, which can easily form calcium oxalate crystals. This may worsen the condition of patients with kidney stones.

4. Pregnant women should consume cautiously: Certain components in shepherd's purse, such as alcohol-based compounds, may stimulate uterine contractions. Excessive intake during pregnancy may lead to vaginal bleeding, and in severe cases, could result in miscarriage.

5. Infants and young children should consume cautiously: The oxalic acid in shepherd's purse may interfere with infants' absorption of essential minerals such as iron and zinc, potentially impairing their growth and development.

Shepherd's purse contains nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamin C, and has beneficial effects including clearing heat and detoxifying the body, moistening the intestines, and promoting bowel movements. It is a health-promoting food. When consuming shepherd's purse, it is advisable to follow the above precautions to avoid potential harm to health.