Should I continue taking Chinese medicine during my menstrual period?

Oct 11, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been drinking Chinese herbal medicine to regulate my body since I wasn't getting my period. Today my period has started, and I'm not sure whether I should continue taking the herbs. May I ask if it's okay to keep drinking the herbal medicine during menstruation?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Aiming
Whether to continue taking Chinese herbal medicine during menstruation depends on the nature of the medication. If the herbs have a blood-activating effect, it is best to avoid taking them during this period, as they may increase menstrual flow, cause prolonged menstruation, or even lead to irregular periods in severe cases. It is advisable to resume the medication after menstruation ends. However, some tonic formulas contain minimal blood-activating ingredients and may still be taken by patients with deficiency patterns.