Can Houttuynia cordata be taken for a long time, and what are its side effects?

　　Houttuynia cordata is generally not suitable for long-term consumption, as it may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, increased body coldness, impaired kidney function, and oral irritation with prolonged use. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Houttuynia cordata has a cold nature and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract with long-term use, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Those with inherently weaker digestive systems may experience more pronounced reactions.

　　2. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop an allergy after prolonged contact with or consumption of Houttuynia cordata, presenting as skin itching, red rashes, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.

　　3. Increased body coldness: Due to its distinctly cold nature, long-term consumption of Houttuynia cordata may lead to accumulation of internal cold, worsening symptoms of cold body constitution such as cold hands and feet and sensitivity to cold.

　　4. Impaired kidney function: Certain components in Houttuynia cordata may place a burden on the kidneys and affect their normal function if consumed in large amounts over a prolonged period.

　　5. Oral irritation: Houttuynia cordata has a unique flavor and contains irritating components that may cause oral mucosal irritation and discomfort or intensified bad breath with long-term use.

　　Consumption of Houttuynia cordata should be controlled in terms of duration and quantity to avoid long-term continuous use. If the above discomfort occurs after consumption, usage should be stopped immediately and symptoms monitored. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to promptly consult a healthcare professional for appropriate management.