Can pregnant women drink Shu Di Huang Tang (Rehmannia Decoction)?
Apr 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, postpartum women can consume Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang) decoction, but should pay attention to moderate consumption. Rehmannia glutinosa has functions of nourishing blood and yin, and enriching essence and marrow. For some postpartum women with deficiency of both qi and blood, moderate consumption of Rehmannia glutinosa decoction may help regulate the body. However, excessive intake may cause adverse reactions such as heatiness and indigestion; therefore, it should be consumed in moderation.
Generally speaking, postpartum women can consume Rehmannia glutinosa soup, but they should pay attention to drinking it in moderation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Rehmannia glutinosa has the effects of nourishing blood, enriching yin, and invigorating marrow. For some postpartum women, if they suffer from deficiency of both qi and blood, moderate consumption of Rehmannia glutinosa soup may help regulate their bodies. However, excessive consumption may cause adverse reactions such as heatiness and indigestion, so it should be taken in moderation.
Postpartum women vary in constitution, and some may not be suitable for taking Rehmannia glutinosa soup. If a woman has a constitution characterized by spleen deficiency, excessive dampness, or loose stools, she should avoid taking Rehmannia glutinosa soup to prevent worsening of symptoms. If the mother is breastfeeding and the baby has abnormal bowel movements or frequent diarrhea, it is also not advisable for the mother to take Rehmannia glutinosa soup, as it may affect the baby's health through breast milk.
When consuming Rehmannia glutinosa soup, postpartum women can combine it with other ingredients for stewing, such as wolfberry, black chicken, yam, etc., to enhance the soup's nutritional value and taste. At the same time, they should avoid consuming it with spicy, greasy, cold, or other irritating foods, to prevent interference with the herbal effects or increasing bodily strain. During the postpartum confinement period, mothers should focus on balanced nutrition, consume more foods beneficial for replenishing qi and blood, maintain healthy dietary habits and a positive mindset, to promote recovery and overall health.
