Can dried winter melon peel be steeped in water for long-term consumption?

Generally, dried winter melon peel, as a traditional Chinese medicinal material, has various effects including clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting diuresis and reducing edema, relieving constipation, and resolving phlegm and relieving cough. Whether dried winter melon peel can be consumed long-term as a soaked water beverage depends on individual circumstances. If consumed seasonally, it generally can be taken long-term; however, for individuals with existing health conditions, long-term consumption is not recommended. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised. Detailed analysis is as follows:

During summer, when the weather is hot, the body may easily develop symptoms of heat-related conditions such as thirst, irritability, and constipation. Drinking an appropriate amount of water infused with dried winter melon peel can help clear internal heat, promote the production of body fluids, and quench thirst, thus alleviating summer-related discomforts.

If there are existing health conditions such as spleen and stomach deficiency-cold or impaired kidney function, consumption of winter melon peel tea should be avoided. Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold may experience worsened gastrointestinal discomfort due to the cold nature of dried winter melon peel, while patients with kidney insufficiency may be prone to electrolyte imbalance due to its diuretic effect.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive intake of any single ingredient in order to support overall health.