Does drinking water infused with dried longan cause excessive internal heat?

May 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, drinking an appropriate amount of longan dried fruit infused in water generally does not cause heatiness; however, excessive consumption may trigger symptoms of heatiness. Longan dried fruit is the processed product of longan fruit, obtained through sun-drying or dehydration. It is rich in nutrients such as iron, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamins B1 and B2. It has functions including nourishing qi and blood, stimulating appetite, strengthening the spleen, calming the mind, and enhancing brain function.

Generally, drinking water infused with dried longan in moderation does not cause heatiness (excess internal heat), but excessive consumption may trigger symptoms of heatiness. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Dried longan is the fruit of the longan tree that has been sun-dried or dehydrated. It is rich in nutrients such as iron, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamins B1 and B2. It has various health benefits, including replenishing energy, nourishing the blood, stimulating appetite, improving spleen function, calming the mind, and enhancing brain function. Drinking water infused with dried longan in moderate amounts can improve sleep quality, increase physical strength, and boost immunity without causing symptoms of heatiness.

However, dried longan is relatively warm in nature and contains a significant amount of sugar and calories. Long-term consumption or consuming large quantities at once may lead to excessive heat accumulation in the body, manifesting as symptoms of heatiness such as dry mouth and throat, mouth ulcers, and constipation. Particularly individuals with inherently hot body constitutions or those prone to heatiness should control their intake of dried longan and avoid continuously consuming large amounts of longan-infused water.

To prevent heatiness, ingredients with cooling properties, such as goji berries, rock sugar, chrysanthemum flowers, or honeysuckle flowers, can be added when steeping dried longan. These ingredients not only neutralize the warming nature of the longan but also enhance its nourishing effects. Additionally, it is important to consume such infusions in moderation to avoid excessive intake of sugar and calories.

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Which three types of people should not eat longan dried fruits?

Generally speaking, there is no specific saying that "three types of people cannot eat longan dried fruits." People with excessive internal heat (damp-heat), diabetes patients, individuals prone to heatiness (excessive internal heat), those with indigestion, and individuals with cold or fever should avoid consuming longan dried fruits. Longan dried fruits are warm in nature and sweet in taste, with a relatively high sugar content. Consumption by these groups may exacerbate physical discomfort. In daily life, food choices should be made in accordance with one's own physical condition.