Who should not consume locust flowers?
May 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, there is no specific group of people who absolutely cannot consume locust flowers. However, individuals with allergic constitutions, those with cold-spleen and stomach deficiency, patients with diabetes, pregnant women, and women during their menstrual period may experience adverse effects after consuming locust flowers, and the effects may vary from person to person. Locust flowers might trigger allergic reactions, such as skin itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Generally speaking, there is no specific group of people who absolutely cannot eat locust flowers. However, individuals with allergies, spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, diabetes, pregnant women, and women during menstruation may experience adverse effects from consuming locust flowers, with varying impacts depending on the individual. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Individuals with allergies: Locust flowers may trigger allergic reactions, such as skin itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. These individuals may easily experience discomfort after contact with or consumption of locust flowers, and in severe cases, medical attention may be required.
2. Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold: Locust flowers are relatively cooling in nature and may worsen symptoms of spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or indigestion. These individuals may feel gastrointestinal discomfort after consumption, affecting normal eating habits and daily life.
3. Diabetic patients: Locust flowers contain a certain amount of sugar, which may negatively affect blood sugar control. Consumption by diabetic patients may lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which is unfavorable for managing their condition.
4. Pregnant women: The body during pregnancy is particularly sensitive, and locust flowers may irritate the gastrointestinal tract or trigger allergic reactions, affecting maternal health. Additionally, excessive consumption may pose risks to the developing fetus.
5. Women during menstruation: The cooling nature of locust flowers may exacerbate cold-related menstrual symptoms, such as abdominal pain or cold hands and feet. These individuals may feel even more discomfort after consumption, affecting their normal daily activities.
To ensure safety, anyone—especially those in the aforementioned special groups—should consume a small test amount before first trying locust flowers and closely monitor any physical reactions.
