TCM Doctor Dispels Kidney Damage Myth, Emphasizes Safety When Properly Prescribed
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A Taiwan traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner has addressed common misconceptions about Chinese herbal remedies causing kidney damage. According to practitioner Tsai Yun-ning, most kidney diseases linked to TCM result from patients self-medicating with unauthorized folk prescriptions rather than properly prescribed treatments. The expert emphasized that following professional medical guidance ensures the safe use of Chinese herbal medicine.
Key Points
- The kidneys are two vital organs located in the retroperitoneal space, responsible for metabolizing bodily fluids and medications
- Kidney injuries can develop into acute or chronic kidney disease when organs are damaged by various factors
- Certain drugs like pain relievers, fever reducers, antibiotics, and heavy metals can directly cause nephrotoxicity with prolonged use
- Since 2003, herbs containing aristolochic acid—including Aristolochia, Stephania, and Aucklandia—have been completely banned in Taiwan
- Practitioners advise against consuming Chinese herbs from unverified sources to prevent kidney damage
Why It Matters
Many Hong Kong residents regularly consult TCM practitioners for health regulation, making accurate information about herbal medicine safety crucial for public health decisions. The clarification helps patients distinguish between evidence-based TCM treatments and potentially harmful self-administered remedies, encouraging safer healthcare practices across the community.
Many Hong Kong residents regularly consult TCM practitioners for health regulation, making accurate information about herbal medicine safety crucial for public health decisions. The clarification helps patients distinguish between evidence-based TCM treatments and potentially harmful self-administered remedies, encouraging safer healthcare practices across the community.