Can I drink soaked Platycodon grandiflorum (Fang Hai) for tonsillitis?

Generally speaking, whether a person with tonsillitis can drink the tea made from Sterculia lychnophora (Pang Dahai) should be determined according to the specific condition. When tonsillitis mainly presents with dryness, swelling, and pain in the throat, moderate consumption of Sterculia lychnophora tea may be appropriate. However, if the condition is accompanied by spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, drinking this tea is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the main symptoms of tonsillitis include dryness, swelling and pain in the throat, and hoarseness, moderate consumption of Sterculia lychnophora tea may help alleviate throat discomfort. To prepare the tea, use 1-2 Sterculia lychnophora seeds, steep them in boiling water, allow to cool slightly before drinking. Each serving should not be excessive, and prolonged continuous consumption should be avoided to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.

For patients with tonsillitis accompanied by spleen and stomach deficiency-cold, who frequently experience symptoms such as abdominal distension, diarrhea, and poor appetite, drinking Sterculia lychnophora tea may increase the burden on the spleen and stomach, worsening these symptoms. In such cases, consumption of Sterculia lychnophora should be discontinued, and warm plain water or mild tea should be chosen to reduce the stimulation to the digestive system.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a light diet and avoid consuming spicy or excessively hot foods to reduce irritation to the tonsils. Ensure sufficient rest, avoid overuse of the voice, rinse the mouth with warm water after meals to maintain oral hygiene, and promote the resolution of tonsillitis through comprehensive care, thus maintaining throat health.