Can Coffee be Consumed While Taking Chinese Herbal Medicine?

When taking herbal medicine, it is not advisable to drink coffee. However, once the medicinal effects have been mostly exerted, it is permissible to consume coffee. Here are some points to consider:

1. Can Coffee be Consumed While Taking Herbal Medicine?

Beverages such as tea, coffee, and cola contain xanthine alkaloids, including caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine. These alkaloids stimulate the central nervous system and have a refreshing effect. Additionally, they have diuretic properties and can cause vasoconstriction. Alkaloids are active components in many herbal medicines. Tannins in tea, if mixed with herbal medicine, can cause acid-base reactions and produce precipitates, making it difficult for the body to absorb the medicine, thereby reducing its effectiveness and compromising treatment outcomes. Therefore, it is not recommended to consume beverages such as tea, coffee, or cola while taking herbal medicine. However, once the medicinal effects have been mostly exerted, it is permissible to consume coffee.

2. Forbidden Foods When Taking Herbal Medicine

Certain foods can interfere with the effectiveness of herbal medicine. These include cold and raw foods, strong tea, spicy and greasy foods, radishes, and pungent and smelly foods. Some of these foods may reduce the potency and efficacy of the medicine, while others may decrease absorption or even produce harmful effects. Therefore, when taking herbal medicine, it is crucial to follow the doctor's instructions and avoid these forbidden foods.