Can raisins cause "heatiness"?

Generally speaking, "internal heat" (shang huo) refers to the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) condition of deficient yin with hyperactive fire. For most people, moderate consumption of raisins does not lead to this condition.

Raisins are made from fresh grapes that have been sun-dried or dehydrated, retaining most of the grape's nutritional components such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. From a TCM perspective, grapes are considered neutral in nature and sweet in taste—neither excessively cooling nor overly warming. Therefore, raisins themselves do not clearly cause internal heat or reduce it. Eating raisins in moderation can help supplement nutrients, relieve fatigue, and slow aging, without triggering symptoms of yin deficiency with excessive fire, such as dry mouth, sore throat, or mouth ulcers. However, since raisins are sweet foods, and TCM holds that excessive sweetness may promote damp-heat, individuals with a naturally heat-prone constitution or those susceptible to yin deficiency fire should consume them in moderation to avoid aggravating internal heat. Additionally, when purchasing raisins, it is important to choose products from reputable sources with reliable quality to prevent food hygiene issues.

It is recommended to maintain a regular daily routine, engage in moderate exercise, drink sufficient water each day, follow a light diet, avoid excessive intake of spicy, greasy, or other irritating foods, and keep a positive and relaxed mood.