Can Semisulcospira (溪螺) clear heat and detoxify?

Aug 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, river snails may have some auxiliary effect in clearing heat, but they do not have a definite heat-clearing and detoxifying effect. Great attention should be paid to the preparation method and quantity when consumed. River snails are not recommended to be eaten raw or undercooked to avoid health risks. In daily life, if there is a need to clear heat, safer ingredients such as wax gourd or mung beans can be chosen, together with a light diet, which is more beneficial for regulating body condition.

Generally speaking, river snails may have a certain auxiliary effect in clearing away heat, but they do not have a clear heat-clearing and detoxifying function. Extra attention should be paid to the preparation method and quantity when consumed. Detailed explanation is as follows:

River snails are common aquatic ingredients containing protein, B-complex vitamins, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which can provide nutrition and help maintain normal metabolism. From the perspective of traditional dietary understanding, river snails are relatively cool in nature, and moderate consumption may have a slight auxiliary effect in relieving sensations of heatiness, but they do not have clear heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. Moreover, river snails live in complex environments and are prone to carry parasites and bacteria. Improper handling or undercooking may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Therefore, when consuming river snails, they should be thoroughly cleaned and cooked for a prolonged period, and the quantity consumed should be controlled.

Raw or undercooked river snails are not recommended to avoid health risks. In daily life, if there is a need to clear heat, safer ingredients such as wax gourd or mung beans can be chosen, combined with a light diet, which is more beneficial for regulating body condition.