Is it not advisable to drink Hedyotis diffusa (White-flowered snake tongue grass) indiscriminately?

Oldenlandia diffusa (Bai Hua She She Cao) has certain medicinal properties and potential side effects, so it should not be taken indiscriminately.

Oldenlandia diffusa is a traditional Chinese herb with a cold nature, associated with the stomach and large intestine meridians. It functions to clear heat, detoxify, promote blood circulation, and resolve dampness. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as abscesses, boils, sore throat, snake bites, and traumatic injuries. Due to its cold nature, long-term or excessive use may lead to deficiency and cold in the spleen and stomach, causing discomfort symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Individuals with deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach, allergic individuals, pregnant women, and other special populations should avoid taking Oldenlandia diffusa. The cold nature of this herb may worsen symptoms of spleen and stomach cold deficiency; allergic individuals may experience symptoms such as skin itching, rashes, and swelling after taking it; pregnant women taking Oldenlandia diffusa may negatively affect the health and development of the fetus.

Therefore, when using Oldenlandia diffusa, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions and not arbitrarily increase the dosage or change the method of administration. During the course of treatment, patients should closely monitor any bodily changes and seek medical attention promptly if adverse reactions occur.