Jin Weidong, Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University

In recent years, China herbal tea has become a fashion. However, due to the difference between Yin and Yang, pharmacists remind you that Chinese herbal medicines have certain pharmacological effects and are suitable for people. Some Chinese herbal medicines are harmless as tea, but others are not suitable for long-term drinking.

If boat-fruited Sterculia is soaked in water, it is suitable for hoarseness caused by wind-heat and pathogenic poison invading the throat. For hoarseness caused by other reasons, boat-fruited Sterculia is ineffective, especially for the elderly who suddenly lost their voices and have spleen deficiency.

Although cassia seed has the function of lowering blood lipid, it can also cause diarrhea. Long-term drinking by women will cause irregular menstruation and even abnormal endometrium. People with diarrhea and low blood pressure should use it with caution, and pregnant women should also use it with caution.

Lycium barbarum has a strong warming effect, but it is not suitable for people with high blood pressure, too impatient temper or people who usually eat more meat and blush.

Although Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch has the effects of invigorating spleen and qi, clearing away heat and toxic materials, long-term use may cause edema and high blood pressure.

Ginseng tea can replenish vitality, promote fluid production, soothe nerves, invigorate spleen and lung, excite nervous system, improve immunity and resist aging. However, strong people, if they take it for a long time or take too much, are prone to dry mouth and even nostril bleeding.

Chrysanthemum tea is cold, although it has the function of clearing away heat and toxic materials, but Chinese medicine believes that yang deficiency is not suitable.

Honeysuckle tea is cold and should not be drunk for a long time. People with deficiency of spleen and stomach or deficiency of qi and menstrual women can't take it.

Senna leaves can make tea, which can relieve constipation and habitual constipation. A small dose can relieve diarrhea, but chronic habitual constipation will be dependent after long-term drinking, and the dose will increase, which will eventually lead to ineffectiveness. Taking large doses of senna leaves can lead to urinary retention and malignant blood pressure changes. Not suitable for lactating and menstruating women and pregnant women.

Experts pointed out that Chinese herbal medicine should not be taken as a tonic, but should be taken under the guidance of a doctor. It should vary from person to person. Whether the dosage is too large or the taking time is too long, there may be toxic and side effects, especially for patients taking western medicine, because improper combination with western medicine may cause harm to the body.