Can Ligusticum wallichii (Chuan Xiong) be steeped in water for drinking?

Apr 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Ligusticum can be consumed as an herbal tea, but it should be taken in moderation and under medical supervision. The components in Ligusticum, such as ligustrazine, can effectively promote blood circulation and help eliminate blood stasis in the body. It has a good alleviating effect on pain caused by blood stasis, such as swelling and pain following traumatic injuries. Ligusticum also has a certain blood pressure-lowering effect, and for patients with hypertension, moderate consumption of Ligusticum tea may help regulate blood pressure.

Generally speaking, Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) can be consumed as an herbal infusion, but it should be taken in moderation and under medical supervision. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Chuanxiong contains components such as ligustrazine, which can effectively promote blood circulation and help eliminate blood stasis in the body. It is particularly effective in relieving pain caused by blood stasis, such as swelling and pain following bruises or injuries. Chuanxiong also has a certain blood pressure-lowering effect and can assist in regulating blood pressure in patients with hypertension when consumed in appropriate amounts. Additionally, Chuanxiong has notable analgesic effects, especially in alleviating headaches caused by tension or poor blood circulation.

Chuanxiong can help regulate gynecological issues such as menstrual irregularities and dysmenorrhea, and drinking Chuanxiong-infused water may help women relieve discomfort during menstruation. Rich in antioxidants, Chuanxiong aids in removing free radicals and reducing damage caused by oxidative stress. However, it should be consumed in moderation. Although drinking Chuanxiong tea offers health benefits, excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.

As Chuanxiong is a concentrated traditional Chinese herb, its active medicinal components may not be fully extracted simply by steeping in water, potentially limiting the desired therapeutic effect. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a physician before consuming Chuanxiong tea to ensure safety and efficacy. Pregnant women, individuals with bleeding disorders, patients with impaired liver or kidney function, and those with allergic constitutions should avoid consuming Chuanxiong tea.

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What are the efficacy and benefits of drinking Sichuan pepper in water?

Chuan Duan usually refers to the herb Dipsacus asperoides (Xuduan). Under normal circumstances, the main effects and benefits of drinking Xuduan-infused water include nourishing the liver and kidneys, strengthening tendons and bones, healing fractures and injuries, stopping excessive menstrual bleeding or metrorrhagia, and regulating blood circulation. When drinking Xuduan-infused water, attention should be paid to the dosage, as excessive consumption may increase the body's burden. Individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat should use it cautiously to avoid exacerbating internal fire. Pregnant women should use it only under professional guidance.