Can patients with hypertension take Heishunpian?

Generally speaking, patients with hypertension should not take Heishunpian (Black Prepared Sichuan Peony). The detailed explanation is as follows:

Heishunpian is a warming herb with strong yang-enhancing properties, and its main active ingredient, aconitine, has certain cardiovascular effects. Patients with hypertension often exhibit TCM syndromes such as hyperactivity of liver yang or yin deficiency with yang hyperactivity. Taking Heishunpian may further increase internal heat, elevate blood pressure, and worsen symptoms such as dizziness and headache. Moreover, aconitine may affect heart function and blood vessel constriction, which could negatively impact blood pressure control.

In addition, long-term or excessive intake of Heishunpian may damage kidney function. Hypertensive patients usually have varying degrees of kidney damage or reduced kidney function, so taking Heishunpian may further burden the kidneys. Patients with hypertension must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and should not adjust dosages or discontinue treatment without consulting a physician. The use of Heishunpian or any other Chinese herbal medicine should be conducted only under the guidance of a qualified physician.

In daily life, hypertensive patients should also maintain a diet low in salt and fat and high in potassium, increase physical activity, manage body weight, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption, all of which are beneficial to maintaining good health.