Does Sedum sarmentosum have any side effects?
Jun 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
There are several potential side effects associated with the use of Sedum sarmentosum (垂盆草). It may cause gastrointestinal irritation, leading to nausea and diarrhea; allergic reactions such as skin itching and difficulty breathing; long-term excessive use can affect liver and kidney metabolism; it may also cause electrolyte imbalance, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue. Concurrent use with other medications may easily lead to drug interactions. Therefore, it is essential to follow medical advice and use this herb cautiously.
Generally, as a common traditional Chinese herb, Sedum sarmentosum (Chui Pen Cao) may cause side effects during use, including gastrointestinal discomfort, drug interactions, electrolyte imbalance, allergic reactions, and effects on liver and kidney metabolism. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Sedum sarmentosum may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These adverse reactions are usually related to an individual's sensitivity to the drug's components. After administration, the gastrointestinal mucosa becomes irritated, peristalsis increases, and these discomforts occur, affecting normal digestive function.
2. Drug interactions: The chemical composition of Sedum sarmentosum is relatively complex. When taken with other medications, it may undergo chemical reactions in the body, altering the original metabolic pathways or efficacy of the drugs. This can reduce drug effectiveness and potentially lead to adverse reactions that harm health.
3. Electrolyte imbalance: Certain components of Sedum sarmentosum may affect the body's electrolyte balance. After administration, abnormal absorption or excretion of important electrolytes such as sodium and potassium may occur, leading to electrolyte imbalance and symptoms such as fatigue and arrhythmia.
4. Allergic reactions: In some individuals, contact with or ingestion of Sedum sarmentosum may trigger an immune response, as the immune system identifies it as a foreign antigen. This initiates an immune response, releasing substances such as histamine, which can cause itching, rashes, erythema, and, in severe cases, symptoms such as throat swelling and difficulty breathing.
5. Effects on liver and kidney metabolism: After entering the human body, Sedum sarmentosum must be metabolized by the liver and kidneys. Long-term or excessive use may exceed the normal metabolic capacity of these organs, increasing their burden, interfering with their normal metabolic and detoxification functions, and potentially damaging liver and kidney health.
Before using Sedum sarmentosum, it is important to fully understand its properties and contraindications, strictly follow medical advice regarding dosage and duration of treatment, and avoid self-medicating arbitrarily. During medication, close attention should be paid to personal reactions, and if any abnormal symptoms occur, the drug should be discontinued immediately and medical attention sought promptly.
