Can I take Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) during my menstrual period?
May 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
If a woman has a weak constitution and suffers from qi and blood deficiency, it may be appropriate for her to consume it. However, if she experiences heavy menstrual flow or has a relatively hot body constitution, it may not be suitable. Women with deficiency of both qi and blood, light menstrual flow, pale and thin menstrual blood, and no other discomfort during menstruation may benefit from moderate consumption of Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) during their period. This is because Ejiao has functions of nourishing blood and yin, moistening dryness, and stopping bleeding, which can help replenish qi and blood.
Generally speaking, whether donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao) can be consumed during menstruation depends on the individual's physical condition and menstrual status. If a woman has a weak constitution and suffers from qi and blood deficiency, moderate consumption of Ejiao may be suitable. However, if the menstrual flow is heavy or the body constitution tends toward heat, Ejiao may not be appropriate. The detailed analysis is as follows:
For women experiencing both qi and blood deficiency, with light menstrual flow, pale color, and thin consistency, and who have no other discomfort during menstruation, appropriately taking Ejiao during their period for blood nourishment may be beneficial. This is because Ejiao has functions of nourishing blood and yin, moistening dryness, and stopping bleeding. It can help replenish qi and blood, improve general physical weakness, and gradually restore menstrual volume and quality to normal.
Ejiao has some blood-activating effects. If consumed excessively during menstruation, it may lead to increased menstrual flow and prolonged menstrual period. Therefore, women with heavy menstrual flow are advised to temporarily stop consuming Ejiao during menstruation to avoid discomfort.
For women with a heat-prone constitution, heavy menstrual bleeding, dark red and thick menstrual fluid, or blood stasis, taking Ejiao to nourish blood during menstruation might not be suitable. Ejiao is relatively rich and greasy in nature and has certain blood-nourishing and hemostatic effects. Women with a heat-prone constitution already have internal heat, and taking Ejiao may exacerbate this internal heat, leading to increased menstrual bleeding or prolonged menstruation.
Even for women who are suitable candidates for Ejiao consumption, it is advisable to consult a qualified physician before taking it. During the period of Ejiao consumption, attention should be paid to maintaining a light diet, avoiding spicy, greasy, raw, or cold irritating foods, so as not to affect the efficacy of the medication.
