Can Polygonatum (Yuzhu) be steeped in water and consumed for a long period?
Apr 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to drink Polygonatum (Yu Zhu) infused water for a prolonged period. Polygonatum, a mild and non-toxic herbal medicine, has functions such as nourishing yin, relieving dryness, promoting body fluid production, and quenching thirst. Drinking an appropriate amount of Polygonatum water can be beneficial to health. However, long-term consumption of Polygonatum-infused water may cause some side effects. Polygonatum is sweet in taste and slightly cold in nature; long-term use may impair the spleen and stomach's yang energy, potentially leading to abdominal pain and bloating.
Generally speaking, it is not recommended to consume Polygonatum sibiricum (Yuzhu) water for a prolonged period. The detailed explanation is as follows:
As a mild and non-toxic herbal medicine, Polygonatum sibiricum offers benefits such as nourishing yin, relieving dryness, promoting body fluid production, and alleviating thirst. Drinking an appropriate amount of Yuzhu water can be beneficial to health. However, long-term consumption of Yuzhu water may cause some side effects. With a sweet taste and slightly cold nature, long-term consumption of Yuzhu may impair the yang energy of the spleen and stomach, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea caused by cold affecting the spleen and stomach. Individuals with weak spleen and stomach functions should be particularly cautious. The yin-nourishing effect of Yuzhu may also promote dampness in the body. Therefore, individuals with excessive phlegm-dampness or poor spleen and stomach function are not advised to consume Yuzhu water over a long period.
Polygonatum sibiricum has a blood pressure- and blood sugar-lowering effect. A large dose of Yuzhu may cause a drop in blood pressure; therefore, individuals with hypotension should avoid long-term consumption of Yuzhu water, as it may further lower blood pressure and, in severe cases, lead to syncope. Additionally, since Yuzhu can lower blood sugar levels, individuals prone to hypoglycemia should avoid taking Yuzhu water on an empty stomach to prevent episodes of hypoglycemia. It is also important to note that Yuzhu should not be taken together with Veratrum (Lilu), Rhizoma seu Radix Polygoni (Wulingzhi), Gleditsia sinensis (Zaojiao), or other similar herbs to avoid adverse reactions.
To ensure safety, it is recommended to follow the principle of moderate use when consuming Yuzhu water. Dosage should be adjusted according to individual constitution and under the guidance of a physician. Additionally, to enhance the therapeutic effects of Yuzhu and reduce adverse reactions, it may be combined with other herbal medicines, but only under the supervision of a qualified medical practitioner.
