Can I take Shensu Cold Tablets during menstruation?
Dec 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, if you catch a cold during menstruation and have normal physical condition without significant dysmenorrhea, Shensu Cold Tablet may be taken. However, those who suffer from severe menstrual pain or have a constitution characterized by cold deficiency should use it cautiously. When having a cold during menstruation, it is important to stay warm and avoid exposure to cold. Drink plenty of warm water and maintain a light, easily digestible diet. Ensure adequate rest, avoid staying up late and strenuous exercise to reduce physical strain.
Generally, if a cold occurs during menstruation, individuals with normal constitution and no significant dysmenorrhea may take Shen Su Cold Tablet. However, those who suffer from severe menstrual pain or have a cold-deficient constitution should use it cautiously. The details are as follows:
Shen Su Cold Tablet is a traditional Chinese medicine containing ingredients such as Codonopsis root (Dangshen) and Perilla leaf (Zisu ye). It has a slightly warm nature and functions to dispel wind and cold, strengthen qi, and resolve exterior symptoms, making it suitable for treating colds caused by wind-cold. If during menstruation a person develops symptoms of wind-cold type cold—such as aversion to cold, clear nasal discharge, and nasal congestion—and normally has regular periods without severe dysmenorrhea, taking an appropriate dose may help relieve cold symptoms. The warming components generally do not significantly affect menstruation.
However, individuals with a deficient-cold constitution who frequently experience cold pain in the lower abdomen, dark-colored menstrual blood with clots during menstruation, or those suffering from wind-heat type colds should avoid self-medicating. The warming properties of Shen Su Cold Tablet may exacerbate internal heat conditions or, due to individual differences, stimulate uterine contractions and worsen menstrual pain. Its use should be determined only under professional medical guidance.
When catching a cold during menstruation, it's important to stay warm and avoid exposure to cold. Drink plenty of warm water, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, ensure adequate rest, avoid staying up late and intense physical activity, and reduce physical stress.
