Can patients with pulmonary nodules take Heishunpian (Black顺片)?
Generally, whether patients with pulmonary nodules can take Heishunpian (Black顺片) depends on their specific conditions. If patients have indications for its use, they can usually take Heishunpian under a doctor's guidance. However, if there are no medical indications, it is not recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Heishunpian has the effects of warming yang to dispel cold and promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, it is commonly used to treat symptoms such as cold-dampness困脾 (trapped spleen due to cold-dampness) and Qi and blood deficiency. If a patient with pulmonary nodules also has a cold-damp constitution or suffers from Qi and blood insufficiency, and a TCM physician determines that Heishunpian is suitable for regulation, then the patient may take it in appropriate amounts under medical supervision.
However, if the patient with pulmonary nodules has a heat constitution, or if the nodules are caused by phlegm-heat in the lung or heat-toxin accumulation, presenting symptoms such as fever, thirst, yellow phlegm, and coughing, taking Heishunpian could exacerbate internal heat pathogens, intensify lung heat, worsen symptoms like coughing and phlegm production, and hinder recovery. Moreover, Heishunpian is somewhat toxic and must be strictly controlled in terms of dosage and method of use. Taking it without proper indications may lead to poisoning due to improper medication, so it should be avoided in such cases.
In daily life, patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure balanced nutrition, and avoid excessive fatigue, which can help enhance immune function and promote recovery from illness.