Can rock sugar be added when using Cornus officinalis to treat sweating?
Apr 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
When using Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) to treat excessive sweating caused by kidney deficiency or physical weakness, adding an appropriate amount of rock candy (ice sugar) may serve as an adjuvant. Rock candy is neutral to slightly cool in nature and has functions of moistening the lungs and promoting body fluid production. It can alleviate the greasy nature of Cornus officinalis and improve the taste, making it particularly suitable for individuals with a constitution偏向虚寒 (tending toward deficiency cold) or those sensitive to bitter herbal flavors. However, it is not recommended for individuals with internal damp-heat or poor blood sugar control.
When using Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) to treat excessive sweating, if the individual's constitution tends toward deficiency-cold or flavor adjustment is needed, an appropriate amount of rock candy (ice sugar) may be added under the guidance of a physician. However, it is not suitable for individuals with internal damp-heat or poor blood glucose control. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a medical professional in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:
When using Cornus officinalis to treat excessive sweating caused by kidney deficiency or physical weakness, adding an appropriate amount of rock candy may provide an auxiliary effect. Rock candy has a neutral to slightly cool nature and can moisten the lungs and promote body fluid production. It can alleviate the greasy nature of Cornus officinalis, improve taste, and is especially suitable for those with a constitution leaning toward deficiency-cold or who are sensitive to the flavor of medicine.
If the patient has symptoms of internal damp-heat or poor blood glucose control, adding rock candy to Cornus officinalis is not appropriate. Rock candy is a sweet substance that may easily promote dampness and phlegm, thus worsening symptoms of internal accumulation of damp-heat, such as dry and bitter mouth, thick greasy tongue coating, or sticky bowel movements. Additionally, diabetic patients or those with elevated blood glucose levels may experience blood sugar fluctuations after consuming rock candy, which is detrimental to health.
When decocting Cornus officinalis, one can first try the original flavor. If it is too sour or astringent to swallow comfortably, rock candy may be added according to one's constitution under the guidance of a TCM practitioner. Spicy and greasy foods should be avoided during the period of medication. For individuals with a damp-heat constitution, herbs such as coix seed (Yiyiren) and poria (Fuling), which help remove dampness, can be used in combination.
