Can patients with tuberculosis take Sanqi powder?

Jul 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I don't know what's going on, but I've had a persistent cough and phlegm recently. After going to the hospital for an examination, the doctor diagnosed me with tuberculosis. Today, a friend brought me some Sanqi powder to take, and I would like to ask whether it is safe to consume Sanqi powder while having tuberculosis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Tuberculosis patients can take Notoginseng powder, but its use should be guided and monitored by a qualified physician. As a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Notoginseng powder offers multiple therapeutic effects, including relieving cough, resolving phlegm, stopping bleeding, and controlling disease progression. These properties can provide certain auxiliary benefits in the treatment of tuberculosis. Specifically, Notoginseng powder can clear heat and detoxify, thereby alleviating cough symptoms in tuberculosis patients. At the same time, it helps dissolve phlegm and reduce sputum production. For hemoptysis caused by rupture of pulmonary capillaries, Notoginseng powder has a hemostatic effect and can effectively relieve this symptom. In addition, Notoginseng powder promotes metabolism and possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help control the progression of tuberculosis. It is important to note that Notoginseng powder cannot directly kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Therefore, while using Notoginseng powder, tuberculosis patients must also receive standard anti-tuberculosis treatments, such as taking medications like rifampin and isoniazid, to control the tuberculosis bacilli in the body. Moreover, patients should pay attention to dietary considerations and avoid cold, spicy, and greasy foods during the use of Notoginseng powder, as these may interfere with the medicine's effectiveness.