What are the benefits and side effects of drinking water infused with Sterculia lychnophora (Pang Da Hai)?

Generally, the effects of drinking soaked Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae (Pangdahai) include moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements, lowering blood pressure, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, clearing heat and moistening the lungs, benefiting the throat, and improving voice. Possible side effects include blood sugar fluctuations, allergic reactions, spleen and stomach damage, gastrointestinal discomfort, and increased burden on the liver and kidneys. Detailed explanations are as follows:

I. Benefits

1. Moisturizes the intestines and promotes bowel movements

Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae is rich in components such as sterculia gum and lychnorhin, which can stimulate the digestive system, enhance intestinal motility, and promote defecation. Drinking its soaked water helps regulate constipation caused by heat accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract, insufficient body fluids, and impaired intestinal transmission function.

2. Lowers blood pressure

Some components in Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae have a blood pressure-lowering effect. Drinking soaked water can dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, reduce blood viscosity, help control blood pressure, and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

3. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects

Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae also has certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, capable of inhibiting the growth of various bacteria and viruses. Drinking soaked water can serve as an adjunctive treatment for respiratory infections, oral ulcers, and similar conditions.

4. Clears heat and moistens the lungs

Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae is cold in nature and sweet in taste, possessing excellent effects of clearing heat and moistening the lungs. Drinking soaked water can effectively relieve symptoms such as coughing and sore throat caused by excessive heat in the lungs, making it suitable for smokers or individuals frequently exposed to air-polluted environments.

5. Benefits the throat and improves voice

The organic acid components in Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae can alleviate throat inflammation and reduce discomfort in the throat area. Drinking soaked water can benefit the throat and improve hoarseness and voice loss caused by excessive internal heat or lung dryness.

II. Side Effects

1. Blood sugar fluctuations

Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae contains a certain amount of sugar, and consuming excessive amounts at once or long-term overuse may cause abnormal blood sugar fluctuations. Overconsumption may lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which is unfavorable for disease control.

2. Allergic reactions

Some individuals may be allergic to certain components in Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae. Symptoms such as skin itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing may occur after consumption. Consumption should be stopped immediately, and medical attention should be sought.

3. Damages the spleen and stomach

Due to its cold nature, long-term consumption of Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae may harm the spleen and stomach, causing discomfort such as bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion. Individuals with a cold-deficient constitution in the spleen and stomach should consume it cautiously.

4. Gastrointestinal discomfort

The cold nature of Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae may, with long-term use, irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Individuals with weak spleen and stomach functions should consume Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae water cautiously.

5. Increased burden on the liver and kidneys

The components of soaked Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae are mainly metabolized and excreted through the liver and kidneys. Long-term excessive consumption may increase the burden on these organs and potentially cause liver and kidney dysfunction.

When using Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae, strictly follow medical or pharmacist instructions, ensure moderate consumption, and closely monitor bodily reactions. Individuals experiencing the aforementioned side effects should discontinue use promptly and seek medical treatment.