Does eating waxberries cause internal heat (heatiness)?

Generally speaking, whether eating bayberries causes "heatiness" (a traditional Chinese concept referring to internal heat or inflammation) depends on the amount consumed. Eating a moderate amount usually does not cause heatiness, while excessive consumption may lead to symptoms associated with it. The details are as follows:

Berries have a sweet and sour taste and are considered slightly warm in nature. When consumed in moderation, the body can adapt well to their properties. Not only are they unlikely to cause heatiness, but they can also supply nutrients such as vitamins and organic acids, helping to stimulate appetite. For most people, consuming around 5 to 10 bayberries at a time is appropriate.

However, overeating without restraint may overload the body due to the warm nature and acidic components of bayberries, potentially leading to symptoms resembling heatiness, such as mouth ulcers, dry throat, and swollen, painful gums. These effects are especially noticeable in individuals with inherently "hot" body constitutions.

To avoid discomfort, it's important to control the quantity of bayberries consumed. People with hotter constitutions may pair them with cooling foods such as mung bean soup or winter melon soup. Rinsing the mouth promptly after eating bayberries can reduce acid exposure to teeth and better support overall oral and general health.