Risks of Long-Term Consumption of Notoginseng Powder for Hypertensive Patients

Mar 23, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Kou Linlin
Introduction
Long-term consumption of Panax notoginseng powder by individuals with hypertension may lead to a tendency toward bleeding. If hypertensive patients take Panax notoginseng powder—a blood-activating herb—concurrently with antihypertensive medications, it may interfere with the efficacy of their antihypertensive drugs. Panax notoginseng powder is commonly used for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and also possesses certain anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Notoginseng (Panax notoginseng), a medicinal plant belonging to the Araliaceae family, is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its ability to invigorate blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, stop bleeding, and alleviate pain. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as hemoptysis, hematemesis, traumatic bleeding, and swelling or pain resulting from contusions or falls. So, what are the potential risks of long-term notoginseng powder consumption for individuals with hypertension? Below, we address this question.

Potential Risks of Long-Term Notoginseng Powder Consumption in Hypertensive Patients

Long-term consumption of notoginseng powder by hypertensive individuals may increase the risk of bleeding tendencies.

Notoginseng powder is prepared from the roots and rhizomes of the notoginseng plant (also known as “tianqi” powder). It is classified in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as warm in nature and slightly bitter in taste, and it primarily enters the Liver, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians. It exhibits potent effects in promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis. However, prolonged use may lead to mucosal bleeding—such as in the oral cavity or nasal passages—as well as at other sites. For hypertensive patients concurrently taking antihypertensive medications, adding notoginseng powder (a blood-activating herb) may interfere with the efficacy of their antihypertensive drugs. Notoginseng powder is also commonly used for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and possesses certain anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Notoginseng powder is contraindicated during pregnancy, as its use may increase the risk of threatened abortion. It is also unsuitable for women during menstruation, as it may exacerbate menstrual bleeding, potentially leading to dizziness and anemia. Individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat should avoid notoginseng powder, as it may aggravate “heatiness” symptoms. Furthermore, patients with preexisting coagulation disorders should not take notoginseng powder, due to the heightened risk of severe hemorrhage.

The above outlines the potential risks associated with long-term notoginseng powder consumption in hypertensive individuals. We hope this information is helpful to you.

Related Articles

View All