Why does drinking traditional Chinese medicine cause diarrhea?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools. Diarrhea after taking traditional Chinese medicine may be related to normal detoxification reactions, the medicine's inherent purgative effects, improper diet, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or other dietary factors. During the period of taking traditional Chinese medicine, it is recommended to consume light and easily digestible foods such as rice porridge and noodles to reduce gastrointestinal burden and promote recovery.
Generally speaking, "having diarrhea" refers to the condition of diarrhea. Diarrhea occurring after taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be related to normal detoxification reactions, the laxative properties of certain herbs, improper diet, gastroenteritis, or irritable bowel syndrome. Management may include general measures or medication under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Normal detoxification reaction
If the body has excessive dampness, taking herbal medicines that help eliminate dampness may lead to diarrhea. This is a normal physiological response as the body expels dampness and usually requires no special treatment. It is recommended to replenish fluids appropriately after diarrhea.
2. Medicinal ingredients with laxative effects
If the TCM contains herbs such as rhubarb or honeysuckle that promote bowel movements, diarrhea may occur after taking the medicine. It is advisable to take the medication about half an hour after meals to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
3. Improper diet
Consuming raw, cold, spicy, or greasy foods during TCM treatment may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and trigger diarrhea. It is recommended to avoid such stimulating foods and instead eat light, easily digestible foods like rice porridge, noodles, and vegetable soup, which can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
4. Gastroenteritis
Consuming contaminated food may lead to bacterial or viral infection of the digestive tract, causing gastroenteritis. Certain components in TCM might exacerbate the inflammation, resulting in diarrhea. Patients may also experience symptoms such as fever, nausea, and vomiting. Under medical guidance, medications such as norfloxacin capsules, ciprofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or montmorillonite powder may be used for treatment.
5. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Long-term anxiety, depression, or stress may affect the intestinal nervous system and lead to irritable bowel syndrome. TCM may stimulate the intestines, increasing intestinal motility and causing diarrhea. Patients may also experience abdominal pain and bloating. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as pinaverium bromide tablets, loperamide hydrochloride capsules, or quadruple live bifidobacterium tablets.
During TCM treatment, it is recommended to consume light, easily digestible foods such as rice porridge and noodles to reduce gastrointestinal burden and support recovery.
