Can Houttuynia cordata be steeped in water for drinking?

Jun 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Individuals with a hot body constitution who are prone to symptoms such as sore throat, gum inflammation, and lung-heat cough may benefit from drinking water infused with Houttuynia cordata (fish mint) in appropriate amounts. This can help alleviate internal heat and reduce discomfort caused by inflammation, leveraging its properties of clearing heat, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects. Regular consumption may also aid in preventing heat-related conditions and regulating the internal body environment.

Generally speaking, Houttuynia cordata can be consumed as a herbal tea, but the appropriate intake should be determined according to individual physical condition and health status. Detailed explanations are as follows:

For individuals with a relatively heaty constitution who are prone to symptoms such as sore throat, gum inflammation, and lung-heat coughing, drinking Houttuynia cordata tea in moderation can help relieve internal heat and reduce inflammation due to its properties of clearing heat, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects. Regular consumption may also help prevent heatiness and regulate the internal body environment.

However, due to its cold nature, Houttuynia cordata can place additional strain on the spleen and stomach of individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold constitution, potentially causing digestive issues such as indigestion, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Additionally, individuals with allergic constitutions may experience allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, and shortness of breath after consuming Houttuynia cordata tea. Excessive and prolonged consumption without attention to dosage may also negatively affect health.

Before drinking Houttuynia cordata tea, it is important to understand your own physical condition. Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold or allergic constitutions should consume it cautiously. Proper dosage should be controlled during consumption, and if discomfort occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.

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What are the ingredients of Lianhua Qingwen?

The main ingredients of Lianhua Qingwen include Forsythia suspensa, Honeysuckle, Prepared Ephedra, Stir-fried Bitter Apricot Seed, Gypsum, Isatis root, Dryopteris crassirhizoma, Houttuynia cordata, Patchouli, Rhubarb, Rhodiola rosea, Menthol, Glycyrrhiza, etc. This medication should be used under professional guidance. If allergic reactions occur or symptoms do not improve after taking the medicine, medical attention should be sought promptly.

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What are the benefits of eating wild Houttuynia cordata?

Under normal circumstances, wild Houttuubu (Zhe'er Gen), a common edible and medicinal plant, offers several health benefits including clearing heat and detoxifying the body, promoting diuresis to reduce swelling, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, as well as assisting in lowering blood lipids. However, it should be noted that wild Houttuubu is cooling in nature, so individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should limit consumption to avoid discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea. It must also be thoroughly washed before eating.

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Can I long-term drink water infused with wolfberry (goji berries) and heartleaf (Houttuynia cordata) while taking antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia?

Under normal circumstances, it is generally safe to long-term consume goji berries and Houttuynia cordata (fish mint) infusion while taking antipsychotic medications. However, intake should be moderated to avoid excessive consumption that may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Choose fresh, unspoiled goji berries and Houttuynia cordata to ensure the hygiene and safety of the brewed drink. There should be a time interval between medication intake and drinking the infusion to avoid potential indirect interactions. Maintain a balanced diet overall.