Can Chonglou treat stomach diseases?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

In general, Chonglou (Rhizoma Paridis) is not suitable as a routine treatment for stomach disorders and should only be used as an adjunct in specific syndrome types of gastric conditions. It should not be taken blindly. Treatment of stomach diseases requires differentiation of the underlying cause and appropriate medication based on syndrome pattern. Daily attention should be paid to regular eating habits, avoiding raw, cold, or spicy foods that may irritate the stomach. The use of Chonglou must strictly follow the principle of pattern differentiation; self-medication should be avoided to prevent delays in treatment or the development of new adverse effects.

Generally, Chonglou (Rhizoma Paridis) is not suitable as a routine treatment for stomach disorders and should only be used as an adjunct in specific syndrome types of gastric conditions. It should not be taken blindly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Chonglou is slightly cold in nature and primarily functions to clear heat, detoxify the body, reduce swelling, relieve pain, cool the liver, and calm internal wind. Clinically, it is commonly used to treat heat-toxin conditions such as carbuncles, abscesses, and sore throat. However, stomach disorders are mostly related to spleen and stomach deficiency, qi stagnation, blood stasis, or invasion by cold pathogens, with common symptoms including abdominal distension, stomach pain, and poor appetite—conditions that do not align with Chonglou’s main therapeutic indications.

If a patient with a stomach disorder also presents obvious signs of heat toxicity—such as mouth ulcers or swollen gums caused by excessive stomach heat—Chonglou may be included in small amounts as part of a formula to assist in clearing heat, but only after proper TCM pattern differentiation by a qualified practitioner. However, using Chonglou alone will not alleviate core symptoms of stomach disorders. Moreover, due to its cold nature, it may impair the spleen and stomach yang qi, potentially worsening symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea.

Treatment of stomach disorders should be based on identifying the underlying cause and applying pattern differentiation to guide medication use. Patients should maintain regular eating habits and avoid raw, cold, or spicy foods that may irritate the stomach. The use of Chonglou must strictly follow the principles of TCM diagnosis; self-medication should be avoided to prevent delayed treatment or new adverse effects.

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What are the effects and benefits of Chonglou?

Chonglou is a traditional Chinese medicine, primarily referring to plants of the genus Paris in the Liliaceae family, including Paris yunnanensis and Paris polyphylla. Its main functions and effects include clearing heat and detoxifying the body, reducing swelling and relieving pain, cooling the liver and calming internal agitation, as well as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, and promoting wound healing. It should be noted that, as a medicinal herb, Chonglou must be used appropriately under the guidance of a physician. Patients are advised to seek medical attention promptly when experiencing discomfort.