Is it normal to have diarrhea after taking Chinese herbal medicine?
Disease description:
Recently, I went to see a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctor because I was feeling physically unwell, and subsequently started taking Chinese herbal medicine. However, after taking the herbs, I began experiencing diarrhea, needing to use the restroom several times a day. I'm wondering whether this is considered normal or not.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Whether experiencing diarrhea after taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is normal depends on the specific circumstances.
Some TCM formulations inherently have functions such as clearing heat and fire or lubricating the intestines to relieve constipation. Mild diarrhea following administration may be considered a normal drug reaction. This may occur because the components of the TCM stimulate the digestive system or because the body is in the process of eliminating toxins.
If the diarrhea is severe, lasts for a prolonged period, or is accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting, immediate medical attention at a hospital is necessary. This could indicate an allergic reaction to the TCM ingredients or that the current herbal formula is not suitable for your body type.
If the number of bowel movements does not exceed three times a day and the duration is short, it is generally regarded as a normal reaction. However, if diarrhea is frequent or persists for an extended period, it may indicate an abnormal reaction, and prompt medical evaluation and treatment are required.
