Can I take Heishunpian when experiencing excessive internal heat (fire)?
Mar 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Black顺pian is a type of hot-natured Chinese herbal medicine that has the functions of warming the spleen to dispel cold and restoring yang to rescue from collapse. It is primarily used for treating diseases caused by deficiency-cold. However, for individuals experiencing excessive internal heat (fire), whose bodies already contain pathogenic heat, taking Black顺pian would be like adding fuel to the fire, potentially worsening symptoms of excessive heat such as mouth and tongue ulcers, swollen and painful gums, and constipation.
Under normal circumstances, one should not take Heishunpian (Black顺片) when experiencing excessive internal heat ("fire"), as Heishunpian is a warming herb that may exacerbate symptoms of internal heat. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional beforehand. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Heishunpian is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a warm nature and is primarily used to warm the spleen, dispel cold, restore yang, and treat conditions of cold deficiency. However, individuals experiencing excessive internal heat already have pathogenic heat in their bodies. Taking Heishunpian in such cases would be like pouring oil on fire, worsening symptoms such as mouth or tongue ulcers, swollen and painful gums, and constipation.
Conversely, for conditions caused by cold deficiency, such as diarrhea or cold abdominal pain due to spleen and stomach cold deficiency, Heishunpian can exert its warming and nourishing effects to help alleviate symptoms. Even so, it must be used under the guidance of a physician to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Individuals experiencing excessive internal heat should avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits to clear internal heat and relieve fire symptoms.
