Should Jianqu be taken by soaking in water or consumed directly?
Dec 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Jianqu is a compound herbal medicine made through fermentation. It has a relatively hard texture, making it difficult to chew and digest if taken directly. As a result, the active ingredients are not easily absorbed by the body, preventing it from fully exerting its effects of promoting digestion, relieving food stagnation, resolving exterior patterns, and harmonizing the interior. Moreover, taking it directly may burden the gastrointestinal system. Steeping or boiling in water is a common and appropriate method of administration. Soak it in boiling water for 15–20 minutes, or boil with water for about 10 minutes.
Generally, Jianqu is more suitable for steeping in hot water or boiling before consumption, and it is not recommended to take it directly, as this may affect absorption or cause gastrointestinal discomfort. If in doubt, follow the proper method of use. Specific analysis is as follows:
Jianqu is a compound herbal medicine made through fermentation. Its texture is relatively hard, making it difficult to chew and digest when taken directly. As a result, the active ingredients are poorly absorbed by the body, limiting its effectiveness in promoting digestion, resolving food stagnation, relieving exterior symptoms, and harmonizing the stomach. It may also place extra burden on the gastrointestinal tract.
Steeping in hot water or decocting are common and appropriate methods of administration. Soaking in boiling water for 15–20 minutes or boiling with water for about 10 minutes allows the active components to dissolve fully into the water. This method enables more efficient absorption, is gentler on the stomach, and is ideal for daily regulation of spleen and stomach function, as well as relief from food retention and abdominal bloating.
When preparing Jianqu, break it into small pieces before steeping or boiling to facilitate the release of active ingredients; control the dosage to avoid overuse; individuals with weak spleen and stomach functions should be cautious, and if discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea occurs after taking it, discontinue use promptly and adjust accordingly.
