Is it true that boiling litchi shells in water can help reduce internal heat?

Generally, whether boiling litchi shells can help relieve internal heat ("fire") depends on individual body constitution, severity of symptoms, and other specific circumstances. If experiencing symptoms of excessive internal heat or other discomforts, it is recommended to promptly seek medical advice from a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

For individuals with a relatively heat-prone constitution and only mild symptoms of internal heat, drinking water boiled with litchi shells may have a certain heat-clearing effect. Litchi shells are cool in nature and contain certain natural active components. Drinking the water after boiling may help alleviate internal heat to some extent, relieve mild symptoms of excessive internal heat, and make the body feel more comfortable.

However, for individuals with a cold-deficient constitution or more severe symptoms of internal heat ("fire"), boiling litchi shells in water is unlikely to produce a significant heat-clearing effect. Drinking litchi shell water may exacerbate internal coldness in individuals with cold-deficient constitutions, and severe internal heat symptoms require more targeted regulation. Simply drinking water boiled with litchi shells may not effectively improve such conditions.

When boiling litchi shells, fresh, mold-free shells should be selected and thoroughly washed before boiling. The quantity used each time should not be excessive, and the boiling time should be appropriate. If gastrointestinal discomfort occurs or symptoms do not improve after consumption, consumption should be discontinued. Individuals with cold-deficient constitutions are advised to proceed cautiously to avoid causing bodily discomfort.