Can women with uterine fibroids consume donkey-hide gelatin (ejiao)?

Patients with uterine fibroids should avoid foods containing estrogen and highly nutritious tonics in their daily diet. They should also refrain from consuming “heat-inducing” foods or foods containing animal blood. Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) is a potent tonic traditionally used to enhance women’s beauty and skin health. But can women with uterine fibroids safely consume ejiao?

Can patients with uterine fibroids consume ejiao?

Ejiao is generally not recommended for individuals with uterine fibroids. Although the exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unclear, elevated endogenous estrogen levels and prolonged estrogen stimulation are considered key contributing factors. Fibroids tend to grow rapidly; when blood supply becomes inadequate, various types of degeneration may occur—larger fibroids and more severe ischemia correlate with a higher incidence of secondary degeneration.

Patients with uterine fibroids should avoid spicy and stimulating foods and beverages—including chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, raw scallions, raw garlic, and baijiu (Chinese distilled spirit). They must also strictly avoid heat-inducing, blood-coagulating, or hormone-containing foods such as longan fruit, red dates, ejiao, and royal jelly.

While ejiao is beneficial for general health tonification, its efficacy depends heavily on appropriate timing and consistent, long-term use—short-term or occasional consumption rarely yields noticeable benefits. Ejiao should be taken only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider to prevent inappropriate or excessive use.

Lastly, women diagnosed with uterine fibroids must carefully limit their intake of ejiao and other strongly tonifying foods. Chocolate is another food that should be avoided, as it may exacerbate the condition, complicate treatment, and increase patient discomfort. In addition to dietary precautions, patients should maintain good personal hygiene and overall healthy lifestyle habits. Women, in particular, should prioritize regular health monitoring and proactive self-care.

We hope the above information is helpful. Wishing you a happy and healthy life.