Should Chinese medicine be taken on an empty stomach or after meals?
May 21, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Whether to take traditional Chinese medicine on an empty stomach or after meals depends on the specific situation. For instance, Chinese medicines that clear heat and detoxify can be taken on an empty stomach, while those that nourish qi and enrich blood are better taken after meals. Some herbal medicines should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption and maximize therapeutic effects. For example, herbs like Coptis (Huanglian) and Astragalus (Huangqi), which have functions of clearing heat, detoxifying, tonifying qi, and nourishing blood, are usually recommended to be taken on an empty stomach to help better alleviate disease symptoms.
Whether to take traditional Chinese medicine on an empty stomach or after meals depends on the specific situation. For example, detoxifying and heat-clearing herbal medicines can be taken on an empty stomach, while tonifying medicines for qi and blood are preferably taken after meals. The details are as follows:
1. On an empty stomach
Some traditional Chinese medicines should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure better absorption and effectiveness. Herbs such as Coptis (Huanglian) and Astragalus (Huangqi), which have functions of clearing heat, detoxifying, replenishing qi, and nourishing blood, are generally recommended to be taken before meals, helping to alleviate disease symptoms.
2. After meals
However, certain herbal medicines should be taken after eating to avoid gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort. Herbs such as Lycium (Gouqi), Jujube (Hongzao), and Rose flower (Meiguihua), which nourish blood, strengthen qi, and moisturize the skin, are usually recommended to be taken after meals. Taking these herbs on an empty stomach may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause abdominal pain.
When taking traditional Chinese medicine, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions, adhere to the prescribed formula and dosage, and pay attention to adjustments in diet and lifestyle to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, monitor your body's response closely and consult a doctor promptly if any adverse reactions occur.
