Can pregnant women eat Hongguoshen (a type of ginseng)?

Generally speaking, pregnant women can consume red fruit ginseng (Lycium barbarum), but should do so in moderation. A detailed analysis is as follows:

Red fruit ginseng contains various nutrients, such as vitamin C, calcium, iron, and others. Vitamin C can enhance the immunity of pregnant women and help prevent infections during pregnancy. Calcium is an essential nutrient for fetal bone development, while adequate iron intake can prevent iron-deficiency anemia in pregnant women, benefiting both maternal health and fetal development. Additionally, red fruit ginseng has certain functions of strengthening the spleen and aiding digestion. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may affect gastrointestinal function, causing indigestion, loss of appetite, and similar issues. The dietary fiber in red fruit ginseng can promote gastrointestinal motility, assist digestion, and improve appetite in pregnant women.

However, due to its relatively cooling nature, excessive consumption of red fruit ginseng by pregnant women may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women control their intake of red fruit ginseng to avoid adverse physical reactions.

Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to monitor their own health status and the development of the fetus, which will help ensure a smooth pregnancy.