Can Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) be steeped in water for long-term consumption?

Apr 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) is not recommended for long-term consumption as a herbal tea. Prolonged and excessive intake may affect the normal peristaltic function of the intestines, leading to dependency and weakening of the body's natural bowel movement capability. In addition, it may cause dysfunction of the spleen and stomach, resulting in symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain. Furthermore, individuals have different body constitutions and varying tolerances to herbal medications.

Generally, Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) is not recommended for long-term consumption as a herbal tea. It is advised to consume Cistanche tea under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

As a traditional Chinese medicine, Cistanche is used to treat symptoms such as kidney yang deficiency and insufficiency of essence and blood. It has a sweet and salty taste with a warm nature, and it enters the kidney and large intestine meridians. It functions to nourish kidney yang, enrich essence and blood, moisten the intestines, and relieve constipation. When used appropriately and in proper amounts under the guidance of a physician, drinking Cistanche tea generally does not cause adverse side effects and may provide certain health benefits.

However, long-term and excessive consumption may affect the normal peristaltic function of the intestines, causing dependency and weakening the natural bowel movement function. Additionally, it may lead to dysfunction of the spleen and stomach, causing symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain. Moreover, individual body constitutions vary, and people may respond differently to medications. Long-term consumption of Cistanche tea may worsen existing conditions or trigger other health problems.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and avoid excessive reliance on a single herb.

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What are the types of tonic wines for enhancing male vitality?

There are various types of tonic wines for enhancing vitality and sexual function, commonly including deer antler wine, epimedium wine, cistanche wine, ginseng and lycium wine, and morinda root wine. These medicinal wines are prepared by steeping traditional Chinese herbs in alcohol, and they are known for their functions of nourishing the kidneys, enhancing vitality, strengthening the tendons and bones. They can also help alleviate discomforts such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, and general fatigue. However, it is important to consume them in moderation and be aware of related contraindications.

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What is the best drink for men to nourish the kidneys and enhance vitality?

Generally speaking, there is no specific drink that is considered best for enhancing kidney function or male vitality. Men who wish to strengthen their kidneys and enhance vitality may appropriately consume water infused with Lycium barbarum (goji berries), longan, Eucommia tea, Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) infused water, or Epimedium (Yin Yang Huo) infused water. Additionally, medications such as Wuzi Yanzong Oral Liquid, Qianglong Yishen Granules, Bushen Ans Shen Oral Liquid, Tian'e Bushen Oral Liquid, and Shuangshen Bushen Oral Liquid may be used under the guidance of a physician.