What should not be consumed with Sanqi (Notoginseng)?
Disease description:
My menstrual pain has become particularly severe after giving birth, and sometimes this pain lasts throughout the entire menstrual period. Two days ago, I visited an experienced traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, who suggested that I could take Panax notoginseng (San Qi). I would like to ask, what should not be taken with Panax notoginseng?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Notably, Sanqi (Panax notoginseng) should generally not be consumed simultaneously with the following types of food:
1. Cold-natured foods: Sanqi has a warm nature and promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis. Consuming it together with cold-natured foods such as watermelon, cucumber, and crab may affect Sanqi's warming properties, reduce its blood circulation effects, and potentially cause physical discomfort.
2. Spicy foods: Such as chili peppers, ginger, and raw garlic. Spicy foods may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing indigestion or worsening gastrointestinal issues, thereby affecting the absorption and efficacy of Sanqi.
3. High-fat foods: Such as fried foods and fatty meats. High-fat foods increase the digestive burden and may interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of Sanqi.
4. Certain seafood: Components in seafood may interact adversely with Sanqi, affecting its efficacy. Particularly cold-natured seafood should be avoided when consuming Sanqi.
5. Sour and astringent foods: Such as mulberry juice and tea. These foods may neutralize the alkaline effects of Sanqi, thereby reducing its medicinal effectiveness.
During the consumption of Sanqi, it is recommended to maintain a light diet and avoid taking it with the above foods and medications. If necessary, please consult a healthcare professional promptly.
