Can I take donkey-hide gelatin (Ajiao) when I have a cold?
Dec 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
If a cold has entered the recovery phase, with fever, sore throat, and other symptoms mostly resolved—leaving only mild fatigue, shortness of breath, and normal digestive function—small amounts of donkey-hide gelatin (Ajiao) may be consumed. At this stage, moderate intake can help replenish nutrients and improve fatigue, but the dosage should be carefully controlled to avoid digestive discomfort due to its rich and sticky nature. Additionally, monitor for any adverse reactions after consumption.
Generally, it is not recommended to consume donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao) during the acute phase of a cold. However, small amounts may be taken during the recovery phase when there are no obvious discomforts. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional beforehand. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If you are in the acute phase of a cold with clear symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, and runny nose—regardless of whether it is a wind-heat or wind-cold type of cold—consuming Ejiao is not advised. Ejiao has a rich and greasy nature; at this stage, the body needs to eliminate external pathogens, and consuming rich or greasy foods may hinder the flow of qi, worsen cold symptoms, prolong the illness, and impair recovery.
If the cold has entered the recovery phase, with major symptoms like fever and sore throat mostly resolved and only mild fatigue or shortness of breath remaining, and if digestive function has returned to normal, small amounts of Ejiao may be consumed. At this stage, moderate intake can help replenish nutrients and improve fatigue. However, the dosage should be carefully controlled to avoid digestive discomfort caused by its greasy nature, and any adverse reactions after consumption should be closely monitored.
Diet should remain light during a cold, and tonic foods should be avoided. Ejiao should only be considered when cold symptoms have largely subsided. If symptoms such as abdominal bloating or worsening cough occur after consumption, stop taking it immediately, monitor your condition, and seek medical advice if necessary.
