Can Houttuynia cordata (fish mint) kill bacteria? How should it be taken?

　　Houttuynia cordata generally has certain antibacterial effects. Methods of administration include decocting and taking internally, preparing as a tea, cooking with other ingredients, extracting the juice for drinking, and combining with other herbs for decoction. Specific methods are as follows:

　　1. Decoction for internal use: Wash an appropriate amount of Houttuynia cordata and place it in a pot with an adequate amount of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Strain the liquid and take it warm, which can exert antibacterial effects through its components.

　　2. Preparation as a tea: Dry the Houttuynia cordata and cut it into small pieces. Place an appropriate amount into a cup, pour boiling water over it, and steep for about 10 minutes before drinking. Repeat the infusion until the flavor becomes weak, suitable for simple daily consumption.

　　3. Cooking with ingredients: When preparing winter melon soup or mung bean soup, add an appropriate amount of Houttuynia cordata and cook together. This allows its active components to dissolve into the broth. Consuming the broth and ingredients together provides both antibacterial effects and nutritional benefits.

　　4. Juice extraction for drinking: Wash fresh Houttuynia cordata thoroughly, crush it, wrap it in gauze, and squeeze out the juice. Dilute slightly with warm water before consumption. This method preserves its components to a greater extent, thereby enhancing antibacterial effects.

　　5. Combination with other herbs for decoction: Houttuynia cordata can be combined with other medicinal herbs such as Forsythia suspensa and Scutellaria baicalensis in appropriate proportions, boiled together in water, strained, and taken internally. This is suitable for situations requiring enhanced antibacterial effects.

　　Dosage of Houttuynia cordata should be controlled, and prolonged continuous use should be avoided. If discomfort occurs after consumption, discontinue use immediately. If there are significant signs of infection, it is recommended to take it under the guidance of a healthcare professional and should not replace medical treatment.