Can expired Huoxiang Zhengqi Water be consumed?

Expired Huoxiang Zhengqi Water should not be consumed. Huoxiang Zhengqi Water is a traditional Chinese medicine preparation, whose main ingredients include Atractylodes, Tangerine Peel, Magnolia Bark, and others. It is commonly used for relieving exterior symptoms and resolving dampness, regulating qi and harmonizing the middle jiao, and is often prescribed for treating colds caused by external contraction of wind-cold, internal damage due to dampness retention, or summerheat-dampness. Once Huoxiang Zhengqi Water has passed its expiration date, its medicinal effectiveness may significantly decrease, its components may degrade or change, and even harmful substances may be produced. Consuming expired Huoxiang Zhengqi Water may fail to achieve the desired therapeutic effect and may instead cause adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Moreover, expired medications are more susceptible to microbial contamination, such as bacteria and mold, thereby increasing the risk of infection.

If Huoxiang Zhengqi Water is found to be expired, its use should be stopped immediately and it should be discarded properly. When purchasing and using medications, always carefully check the manufacturing date and expiration date to ensure the medication's efficacy and safety. If you accidentally consume expired Huoxiang Zhengqi Water and experience adverse symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to receive timely treatment. In daily life, medications should also be stored properly, avoiding moisture, heat, and direct sunlight, to ensure their quality and effectiveness.