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What are the side effects of Polygonatum (Yellow Essence)?

Feb 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Polygonatum (Yellow Essence), as a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, spleen deficiency with excessive dampness, phlegm-dampness accumulation in the lungs, and increased burden on the liver. It is recommended to strictly follow medical advice when using Polygonatum to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication. At the same time, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help enhance the body's resistance.

Generally, as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Polygonatum (Yellow Essence) may have side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, spleen deficiency with excess dampness, phlegm-dampness accumulation in the lungs, and increased burden on the liver. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Polygonatum has the effect of nourishing Qi and Yin. Long-term excessive consumption of Polygonatum may lead to excessive Yin nourishment, damaging the Yang Qi of the spleen and stomach, thereby causing deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach. Patients may experience gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, stomach pain, and abdominal distension.

2. Allergic Reaction

Some patients may have allergic reactions to the components in Polygonatum. Symptoms after consumption may include skin redness and swelling, itching, difficulty breathing, and coughing. If allergic to Polygonatum, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

3. Spleen Deficiency with Excess Dampness

Polygonatum has a greasy nature and long-term excessive use can easily cause greasiness in the spleen and stomach, leading to insufficient function of the spleen and stomach in transformation and transportation, resulting in the pathological condition of spleen deficiency with excess dampness. Patients may feel physical fatigue, weakness, and loose stools.

4. Phlegm-Dampness Accumulation in the Lungs

Due to its greasy nature, long-term excessive use of Polygonatum may lead to spleen deficiency that fails to properly metabolize bodily fluids, causing fluid accumulation to form phlegm, thereby worsening the condition of phlegm-dampness accumulating in the lungs. Patients may experience symptoms such as coughing and phlegm production.

5. Increased Burden on the Liver

The components of Polygonatum must be metabolized by the liver. Excessive or long-term use may increase the liver's metabolic burden, potentially causing liver damage.

It is recommended to strictly follow medical advice when using Polygonatum to ensure safe and effective medication use. At the same time, maintain healthy lifestyle habits, including balanced diet and moderate exercise, to enhance physical resistance.

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