Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui: Its Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

Many people have heard of Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, a commonly stocked medication in households. It has a wide range of applications. For instance, it can be used to alleviate symptoms of heatstroke during hot weather, with effects such as dispelling cold and reducing fever. Additionally, it can also treat symptoms such as headache, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting caused by external wind-cold invasion. However, when using Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects. Let's take a look at this aspect.

1. Side Effects of Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui

Recent clinical reports have indicated that the main side effects of Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui are allergic reactions. Individual patients may experience adverse reactions such as allergic rash, allergic shock, allergic purpura, and tachycardia after taking Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui. Therefore, it is especially important for those with allergic tendencies to be cautious when using this medication. Common manifestations include skin itching and rash after taking Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, and some patients with allergic tendencies may even develop bronchial asthma as a result. This is due to the volatile substances present in Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, such as the essential oils of Pogostemon cablin and Perilla frutescens, which can easily cause allergic reactions.

In addition, Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui contains alcohol as a solvent in its manufacturing process, with an alcohol content often reaching 40% to 50%. Therefore, some patients who are sensitive to alcohol may experience symptoms of intoxication after taking Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui. There have also been some clinical reports of tachycardia, mechanical intestinal obstruction, and purpura occurring after taking Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, but the incidence of these side effects is relatively low.

2. Medication Reminders

Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui, which contains ethanol as an auxiliary ingredient, should be avoided when taking cephalosporin drugs to prevent the occurrence of disulfiram-like reactions. If a disulfiram-like reaction occurs accidentally, it can resolve spontaneously in mild cases and does not require special treatment. However, in severe cases with severe intoxication reactions, immediate medical attention should be sought.

3. Indications and Dosage

Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Shui is indicated for the treatment of colds caused by external wind-cold invasion, internal dampness retention, or summer heatstroke. Symptoms include headache, heaviness in the head, chest discomfort, abdominal distension and pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is also suitable for gastrointestinal-type colds manifesting with the above symptoms. The medication is taken orally, with a dosage of half a dose (5 milliliters) to one full dose (10 milliliters) twice a day. Shake well before use.