Can I eat Ejiao when my period comes?

Patient's question:

No

Doctor's answer:

Hello! Some people believe that Ejiao (Chinese donkey-hide gelatin) is warming and that it can be consumed during menstruation to replenish qi and blood. However, many others argue that Ejiao should not be eaten during menstruation. Which viewpoint is correct?
Ejiao is known for invigorating blood circulation and stopping bleeding. If menstrual bleeding is excessive, Ejiao can be taken because it has the effects of replenishing blood and stopping bleeding. However, it is still best not to consume it during the menstrual period. This is because during menstruation, yin blood flows downward, and yang qi tends to be dominant. At this time, one should avoid foods that are overly warming, such as jujubes (red dates) and Ejiao.
Therefore, before menstruation, it is important to harmonize qi and blood and avoid overly heating foods. You can take a small amount of He Shou Wu (Chinese polygonum multiflorum), pork ribs, yam (which strengthens the spleen), Angelica sinensis (dang gui), lotus root (which supplements iron), and kelp (which promotes phlegm discharge, diuresis, and bowel movement detoxification).
After menstruation, it is necessary to nourish yin and replenish blood to replenish the qi and blood lost previously. You can take Ejiao in moderation and cook nourishing soups, such as black-bone chicken with goji berries and red dates. You can also eat pork ribs, yam, and lotus root. Of course, it is best to take Chinese herbal medicines that nourish yin and replenish qi and blood.
During this period, you can also eat more "dark-colored" foods, such as black fungus (Hei mu er), black beans, black fish, and loach.