Can Lianqiao be steeped directly in water for consumption?
Sep 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
When applicable conditions are met, forsythia can be directly steeped in water for consumption. Healthy adults may appropriately drink forsythia-infused water to achieve certain auxiliary relief effects when experiencing symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and dry mouth in the early stages of a wind-heat type cold. In such cases, dried forsythia purchased from正规渠道 (legitimate sources) should be selected, steeped in boiling water, and consumed with attention to proper dosage—excessive intake should be avoided.
Under normal circumstances, Forsythia suspensa (Lianqiao) can be steeped directly in water when the applicable conditions are met. However, it is not recommended for individuals with special body constitutions or specific health conditions. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a medical professional in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
When symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and dry mouth appear in the early stage of a wind-heat type cold, healthy adults can appropriately consume Forsythia suspensa tea to achieve certain auxiliary relief effects. At this time, dried Forsythia suspensa purchased from reputable sources should be selected, steeped in boiling water, and consumed with attention to dosage control—excessive consumption should be avoided.
People with deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach or frequent diarrhea are not advised to drink Forsythia suspensa tea, as its nature is relatively cold and cooling, which may worsen discomforts such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pregnant women, lactating women, and children, whose body constitutions are special, should also avoid using Forsythia suspensa tea on their own to prevent potential adverse effects. Additionally, if the cold belongs to the wind-cold type, characterized by chills and clear nasal discharge, drinking Forsythia suspensa tea may have counterproductive effects.
Forsythia suspensa tea can only be used as an auxiliary remedy for minor daily discomforts and cannot replace medical treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, timely medical consultation is necessary. Medication should be taken under a physician's instructions. Long-term or indiscriminate consumption should be avoided.
