Which Chinese Medicine Ingredients Should Be Avoided?
Detailed guide on Chinese medicine ingredients to avoid for G6PD deficient patients
Important Warning
G6PD deficient patients should avoid Chinese medicines containing Calculus Bovis, Realgar, Cinnabar, Menthol, Camphor, and other risky ingredients. These components may trigger severe hemolytic reactions. Always consult professional TCM practitioners before using any Chinese medicine.
Prohibited Chinese Medicine Ingredients
Heat-clearing and Detoxifying
Calculus Bovis
High RiskCalculus Bovis
Pearl
Medium RiskMargarita
Realgar
High RiskRealgar
Cinnabar
High RiskCinnabaris
Qi-regulating and Blood-activating
Mint
Medium RiskMenthae Herba
Camphor
High RiskCamphora
Borneol
High RiskBorneolum
Exterior-releasing
Menthol
High RiskMentholum
Eucalyptus Oil
Medium RiskOleum Eucalypti
Common Prohibited Patent Medicines
Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets/Pills
Strictly ProhibitedReason: Contains high-risk ingredients like Calculus Bovis and Realgar
Safe Alternatives: Consult doctor for safe heat-clearing medications
Angong Niuhuang Pills
Strictly ProhibitedReason: Contains Calculus Bovis, Cinnabar, and Realgar
Safe Alternatives: Qingkailing Injection (under medical supervision)
Compound Menthol Nasal Drops
Use with CautionReason: Contains menthol
Safe Alternatives: Saline nasal drops
Fengyoujing (Medicated Oil)
Strictly ProhibitedReason: Contains menthol and camphor
Safe Alternatives: Cooling oil (menthol-free)
Chinese Medicines Requiring Caution
Heat-clearing Herbs Requiring Caution
Relatively Milder Chinese Medicines
Relatively Milder Herbs
- LicoriceHarmonizes formulas, relatively safe
- PoriaSpleen-strengthening, mild nature
- Chinese YamFood-medicine dual use, relatively safe
- JujubeQi-tonifying, mild nature
Cough Relief Requiring Medical Guidance
- FritillariaLung-moistening, requires medical guidance
- Loquat LeafLung-clearing, requires proper processing
- PlatycodonLung-opening, use in moderation
Important Warning: Common heat-clearing herbs like Honeysuckle, Forsythia, and Isatis Root contain oxidative components and should be avoided by G6PD deficient patients. Even relatively mild herbs must be used under professional TCM practitioner guidance.
Precautions for Using Chinese Medicine
Read Ingredient Lists Carefully
Always check complete ingredient lists before purchasing patent medicines to avoid prohibited components
Consult Professional TCM Practitioners
Actively inform TCM doctors about your G6PD deficiency so they can choose safe herbs
Avoid Self-medication
Do not self-purchase and use patent medicines, especially complex compound preparations
Be Careful with Topical Preparations
Topical TCM preparations may also be absorbed through skin, requiring the same ingredient safety considerations
Emergency Symptom Recognition
If the following symptoms occur after using Chinese medicine, stop immediately and seek medical attention:
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for reference only and cannot replace professional medical advice. Any Chinese medicine use should consult qualified TCM practitioners.