Can Sanqi be steeped in water for consumption?

Apr 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
As a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Panax notoginseng has the effects of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and stopping bleeding by dispersing瘀. For healthy individuals or those with mild blood stasis or a tendency to bleeding, drinking water infused with an appropriate amount of Panax notoginseng may provide certain health benefits. For example, individuals who often sit for prolonged periods and suffer from poor blood circulation may benefit from drinking Panax notoginseng-infused water, as it may help improve blood circulation.

Generally, Panax notoginseng can be steeped in water for consumption, but it should be used appropriately under the guidance of a physician. Certain special populations should not consume Panax notoginseng steeped in water.

As a traditional Chinese medicine, Panax notoginseng has functions of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and stopping bleeding by dispersing瘀. For healthy individuals or those with mild blood stasis or bleeding tendencies, moderate consumption of Panax notoginseng tea may provide certain health benefits. For example, individuals who sit for prolonged periods and experience poor circulation may benefit from drinking Panax notoginseng water to help improve blood circulation and reduce physical fatigue.

However, it is important to note that Panax notoginseng has a strong blood-activating effect. Its use by pregnant women may induce miscarriage; therefore, pregnant women should avoid taking Panax notoginseng. Patients with existing bleeding tendencies or active bleeding, such as hemoptysis, hematemesis, rectal bleeding, etc., should use Panax notoginseng cautiously to avoid exacerbating bleeding symptoms. As Panax notoginseng is warm in nature, patients with yin deficiency and dry mouth symptoms may need to use it in combination with medications that nourish yin and cool the blood to avoid potential side effects.

During the period of taking Panax notoginseng, a light diet should be maintained, and smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided to prevent affecting the drug's effectiveness or increasing bodily strain.