Can drinking traditional Chinese medicine cause yellow urine?
Aug 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, whether drinking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) causes yellow urine depends on the type of TCM used. Taking TCM containing pigments may lead to yellow urine, while taking TCM without pigments typically does not cause yellow urine. To reduce the concern of yellow urine while taking TCM, it is advisable to increase water intake appropriately during the period of TCM administration to promote pigment excretion, and to pay attention to changes in urine color.
Generally speaking, whether drinking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) causes yellow urine depends on the type of TCM involved. TCM containing pigments may lead to yellow urine, while TCM without pigments typically does not cause yellow urine. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Certain TCM herbs naturally contain pigments, such as rhubarb, gardenia, and scutellaria. These pigments cannot be completely absorbed by the human body and are excreted through urine, causing the urine to appear yellow. This condition is considered normal and there is no need for excessive concern. Once the related TCM is discontinued, the yellow urine symptoms will gradually disappear.
When the TCM being taken does not contain obvious pigment components, the urine color usually remains unchanged, staying light yellow or colorless. In such cases, if yellow urine occurs, it may be due to other factors, such as insufficient water intake or excessive sweating, rather than a direct effect of the TCM.
To reduce the concern of yellow urine while taking TCM, it is advisable to increase water intake appropriately during the treatment period to promote pigment excretion. Additionally, monitoring changes in urine color is recommended. If yellow urine persists after discontinuation of the medication, it can be improved by adjusting water intake and dietary habits.
