Can Aconite Root (Fuzi) be consumed by steeping in water?
Apr 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata) can be consumed as a tea infusion, but it should be used cautiously under the guidance of a physician. Fuzi is a toxic traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a pungent and sweet taste, and a property of being strongly hot. It is associated with the heart, kidney, and spleen meridians, and has functions including restoring yang to rescue from collapse, replenishing fire to assist yang, dispersing cold, and relieving pain. It is commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as yang deficiency collapse, cold limbs and weak pulse, insufficient heart yang, chest obstruction with heart pain, and vomiting or diarrhea due to cold deficiency.
Generally speaking, Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata) can be consumed as a tea infusion, but it should be used cautiously under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Fuzi is a toxic traditional Chinese herb. It has a pungent and sweet taste and is highly warming in nature, affecting the heart, kidney, and spleen meridians. It functions to restore yang and rescue from collapse, supplement fire and assist yang, and dispel cold to relieve pain. Fuzi is commonly used for treating conditions such as yang deficiency collapse, cold limbs and weak pulse, insufficient heart yang, chest obstruction with heart pain, and cold deficiency vomiting and diarrhea. Fuzi contains various toxic components, such as aconitine. Consuming it directly as a tea infusion without proper processing and strict dosage control can easily lead to poisoning. Therefore, when preparing it as a tea infusion, it is necessary to ensure that the Fuzi has been thoroughly decocted until it no longer causes a numbing or spicy sensation.
The dosage of Fuzi must be strictly controlled to avoid overdose and subsequent poisoning. Due to its toxicity, it is essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner before use and follow the physician's instructions for proper administration. The physician will determine the appropriate dosage and method of use according to the patient's specific condition and constitution, to reduce Fuzi's toxicity while achieving its therapeutic effects.
When using Fuzi, avoid taking it simultaneously with other tonic Chinese patent medicines to prevent potential drug interactions that may affect the treatment outcome. During consumption of Fuzi tea infusion, closely monitor your body's response. If any adverse reactions occur or symptoms worsen, discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.
