Is shepherd's purse a heat-generating food?
Apr 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
"Fa Wu" (发物) generally refers to foods that may trigger or exacerbate diseases, particularly within the framework of traditional Chinese medicine, which holds that foods possess specific properties that may affect the treatment or recovery process of diseases. Shepherd's purse, as a common wild vegetable, is generally not considered a "Fa Wu." Shepherd's purse has certain nutritional value and is suitable for healthy individuals or those without specific medical conditions.
Shepherd's purse is generally not considered a "trigger food" (fayao), and it is recommended to consume it in moderation.
In traditional Chinese medicine, "trigger foods" typically refer to those that may induce or exacerbate diseases. Foods are believed to have specific properties that could affect the treatment or recovery process of illnesses. Shepherd's purse, as a common wild vegetable, is generally not considered a trigger food. It has certain nutritional value. For healthy individuals or those without specific medical conditions, shepherd's purse is not only non-triggering but is also believed to have effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, as well as promoting diuresis and reducing edema (clearing heat and detoxifying).
In general, for most people, shepherd's purse is not considered a trigger food. It is a nutrient-rich vegetable containing various vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, and moderate consumption is beneficial to health. It does not have significant irritant or allergenic properties and generally does not cause physical discomfort or worsen existing conditions.
Before consuming shepherd's purse or any other food, it is advisable to understand your own health status and history of food allergies to avoid unnecessary health risks.
