Can I take cold medicine after consuming lingzhi soup?

Dec 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

If you wait 1–2 hours after drinking the Reishi mushroom soup and choose a simple traditional Chinese medicine cold remedy—such as Fenghan Ganmao Granules or Fengre Ganmao Granules—it is generally safe to take. This interval helps reduce direct interactions between the two in the gastrointestinal tract. Mild cold medicines have a low risk of ingredient conflict with Reishi soup, minimizing discomfort and allowing each to exert its respective regulatory and therapeutic effects.

Generally, it is acceptable to take cold medicine after a certain time interval and if the medicine is mild in composition. However, immediate intake or using cold medicines with complex ingredients is not recommended. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If 1–2 hours have passed after consuming lingzhi (Reishi) soup and a simple-ingredient traditional Chinese cold remedy—such as Fenghan Ganmao Granules or Fengre Ganmao Granules—is chosen, taking the medicine is generally safe. The time interval helps reduce direct interactions in the gastrointestinal tract, minimizing the risk of ingredient conflicts between the lingzhi soup and the cold medicine. This approach reduces the likelihood of discomfort and allows both substances to exert their respective therapeutic and regulatory effects.

It is not recommended to take cold medicine immediately after drinking lingzhi soup, especially if the medicine contains multiple Western pharmaceutical components such as antipyretic-analgesics or antihistamines. Immediate consumption may increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal system. Moreover, active ingredients in Western medicines may interact unpredictably with the bioactive compounds in lingzhi, potentially reducing drug efficacy or causing adverse reactions such as nausea and bloating, and could even exacerbate physical strain.

If it is necessary to take cold medicine after consuming lingzhi soup, observe an appropriate time interval and avoid simultaneous administration. Carefully check the ingredients of the cold medicine before use, and prioritize products with simpler compositions. If any discomfort occurs, discontinue use immediately, monitor symptoms closely, and seek medical attention when necessary.

View All

Can Compound Cold Ling be taken for bacterial cold?

In general, bacterial colds can be relieved with Compound Cold Medicine to alleviate symptoms, but this type of medication alone cannot cure the infection. Whether or not to combine antibacterial drugs should be determined based on specific circumstances. Adequate rest should be ensured during a bacterial cold, and drinking plenty of warm water helps promote metabolism. A light and easily digestible diet is recommended. Avoid smoking and exposure to irritants such as dust and smoke to reduce respiratory tract burden.