Is It Safe to Drink Herbal Teas Daily? Benefits and Risks Explained

Can these Chinese herbal medicines be consumed long-term?

I now brew a pot daily with goji berries, white ginseng, and ophiopogon, and drink it like plain water.
Is this good for me? What are the long-term benefits and drawbacks for my health? What specific areas of the body do goji berries, ginseng, and ophiopogon support? Additionally, if I have high cholesterol, is it still safe to drink this? Is this effective for weight loss? Does this beverage contain calories?

A Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/12/23

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear User,
1.
It is fine to brew a pot of goji berries, white ginseng, and ophiopogon root and drink it like plain water every day.
Long-term consumption is beneficial for most people and has no significant drawbacks.
2.
Goji berries: According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, they are beneficial for invigorating Qi, generating fluids, assisting Yang, tonifying deficiency, strengthening muscles and bones, improving eyesight, promoting bowel function, and treating diabetes.
Ginseng: It greatly replenishes vital energy, strengthens the spleen and lungs, enhances vision and cognitive function, and treats deficiency-related internal injuries and various blood disorders.
Ophiopogon root: It moistens the lungs, alleviates cough, resolves phlegm, improves eyesight, and promotes fluid production; however, it should be avoided by those with cold stomach conditions.
3.
Drinking goji berries, white ginseng, and ophiopogon root as plain water can improve eyesight, replenish vital energy, and moisten the lungs while addressing deficiency.
4.
It is acceptable to consume this if you have high cholesterol, but if you aim to lower cholesterol or lose weight, this may not be effective.
It is advisable to use diaphoretic and diuretic herbal remedies for lipid reduction.
5.
This drink does contain calories, but it can enhance bodily energy and immunity.
Wishing you well,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung, Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Fengyuan Hospital / Associate Professor at the General Education Center, Chung Tai University of Technology.

Reply Date: 2013/12/23

More Info

Drinking herbal teas daily can be a beneficial practice, but it is essential to understand both the advantages and potential risks associated with specific ingredients. In your case, you mentioned consuming a blend of goji berries (枸杞), ginseng (人參), and Ophiopogon (麥門冬) as a daily beverage. Each of these herbs has unique properties that can contribute to your health.

Benefits of Each Herb:
1. Goji Berries (枸杞): Known for their high antioxidant content, goji berries are believed to support immune function, improve eye health, and enhance skin vitality. They are also thought to have anti-aging properties and may help in regulating blood sugar levels.

2. Ginseng (人參): This herb is widely recognized for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress. Ginseng may also enhance energy levels, improve cognitive function, and support overall vitality. Some studies suggest that it may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

3. Ophiopogon (麥門冬): Often used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ophiopogon is believed to nourish the lungs and promote hydration. It may also have a calming effect and support digestive health.

Potential Risks:
While these herbs can offer health benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Interactions with Medications: If you are taking medications, particularly for cholesterol management or blood pressure, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. Ginseng, for example, can interact with anticoagulants and other medications.

- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to herbal ingredients. It is advisable to monitor your body's response when introducing new herbs into your diet.

- Excessive Consumption: Drinking large quantities of herbal teas may lead to adverse effects. For instance, excessive ginseng intake can cause insomnia, headaches, or digestive issues.

Cholesterol Management:
If you have high cholesterol, incorporating these herbs into your diet may have some positive effects, particularly ginseng, which has been studied for its potential to lower cholesterol levels. However, it should not replace prescribed medications or lifestyle changes recommended by your healthcare provider.

Weight Management:
Regarding weight loss, while herbal teas can be a low-calorie beverage choice, they are not a magic solution for weight loss. The caloric content of the herbs you mentioned is relatively low, but the effectiveness of these herbs for weight management largely depends on your overall diet and lifestyle. Drinking herbal tea can be part of a healthy weight loss strategy, especially if it replaces higher-calorie beverages.

Conclusion:
In summary, drinking a daily infusion of goji berries, ginseng, and Ophiopogon can be beneficial for your health, provided you consume them in moderation and are aware of any potential interactions with medications. It is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions like high cholesterol or are considering using these herbs for weight loss. Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle will ultimately yield the best results for your overall health and well-being.

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