What are the side effects of Alisma (泽泻)?

Feb 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Bai Hongmei

Introduction

The side effects of Alisma (Zexie) may include eye discomfort, electrolyte disturbances, allergic reactions, damage to the spleen and stomach yang energy, and increased burden on the liver and kidneys. To reduce the risk of these side effects, patients should follow medical advice when using Alisma and closely monitor their physical responses. If any adverse symptoms occur, medication should be stopped immediately and medical attention sought.

Under normal circumstances,泽泻 (Alisma) refers to the dried rhizome of the plant Alisma plantago-aquatica of the Alismataceae family and is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. Possible side effects of Alisma include eye discomfort, electrolyte imbalance, allergic reactions, damage to the yang energy of the spleen and stomach, and increased burden on the liver and kidneys. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Eye Discomfort

Substances in Alisma, such as triterpenoids and asparagine, may have adverse effects on the eyes. Overdose of Alisma may cause eye discomfort, including symptoms such as pain, dryness, and blurred vision. Patients experiencing eye discomfort should stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical evaluation.

2. Electrolyte Imbalance

Alisma has diuretic properties, and long-term use may lead to electrolyte imbalance within the body, particularly causing decreased levels of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. Electrolyte imbalance may cause symptoms such as muscle weakness and arrhythmia. Therefore, patients using Alisma should closely monitor their electrolyte levels and undergo regular related examinations.

3. Allergic Reactions

Some patients may experience allergic reactions to components in Alisma. Symptoms of allergic reactions may include itching, redness, swelling, skin rashes, and in severe cases, even anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening. Patients experiencing such reactions should immediately stop taking the medication and seek medical attention for anti-allergy treatment.

4. Damage to Spleen and Stomach Yang Energy

Alisma has a cold nature and long-term or excessive use may impair the yang energy of the spleen and stomach, leading to spleen and stomach cold deficiency. Patients may experience discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

5. Increased Burden on Liver and Kidneys

As a medicine, the components of Alisma need to be metabolized and excreted through the liver and kidneys. Long-term and large-dose use of Alisma may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys, affecting their normal function. In severe cases, it may even cause liver and kidney failure. Therefore, when using Alisma, patients should follow medical advice to control the dosage and duration of treatment.

To reduce the risk of these side effects, patients should follow medical instructions when using Alisma and closely monitor their physical responses. If any discomfort occurs, medication should be stopped immediately and medical evaluation sought.

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What are the effects and benefits of Alisma (Ze Xie)?

Alisma orientale is a perennial aquatic or marsh herb belonging to the Alismataceae family and Alisma genus, and it is also a commonly used traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It has various therapeutic effects, including promoting diuresis and reducing edema, clearing heat and purging fire, nourishing yin and tonifying the kidneys, detoxifying, and lowering blood lipids and body weight. In traditional Chinese medicine, Alisma is sometimes also used to stabilize emotions and alleviate anxiety and tension. However, please note that if you intend to use this herb, you must first consult a qualified medical professional.