Overuse of Pearl Powder Leads to Digestive Issues
Forty-six-year-old Ms. Huang took an unauthorized brand of pearl powder in pursuit of youth, resulting in severe adverse reactions. Dr. Du Wenmin from Shanghai’s Drug Adverse Reaction Center stated this morning that pearl powder is a cooling herb in traditional Chinese medicine and not suitable for everyone. Taking it without proper guidance may not only fail to delay aging but could also pose health risks.
"Cixi’s Beauty Formula" Is Unreliable
Ms. Huang, aged 46, works as a finance officer at a construction company in Shanghai. After reading an article claiming that Empress Cixi frequently consumed pearl powder for beauty, she bought several boxes and took them daily without interruption. After half a month, she experienced indigestion, followed by persistent diarrhea. During spring and autumn, she often felt cold in her limbs and her complexion turned sallow.
Last week, she contacted the “Dr. Du’s Letterbox” at Shanghai Municipal Drug Administration with her concerns. After investigation by Dr. Du Wenmin, it was confirmed that the pearl powder she used had no quality issues. The severe adverse reactions were actually due to her weak, cold constitution.
Long-term Internal Use Carries Side Effects
Associate Professor Zhu Jiong from the Department of Traditional Chinese Dermatology at Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine pointed out that 90% of pearls consist of calcium carbonate, along with various trace elements and amino acids, giving them pharmacological effects such as calming nerves, stopping bleeding, and whitening. However, due to poor absorption and potential side effects from prolonged internal use, he does not recommend taking pure pearl powder internally.
If used for whitening and anti-aging, relying solely on pearl powder is insufficient. Pearls mainly act as a conduit, delivering nutrients into the skin and removing waste products. Therefore, combining pearl powder with other medicated cosmetic products is necessary to achieve effective results. Many ancient beauty formulas, including those attributed to imperial concubines, lack scientific basis.
Those with Cold Constitution Should Avoid Pearl Powder
Although pearl powder offers various health benefits, many brands now market oral capsules containing pearl powder for beauty and health. Experts emphasize that not everyone should take pearl powder. Individuals with cold constitutions, sensitive stomachs, or stone-forming conditions should avoid it, as it may easily cause digestive problems. Since pearls are considered cold in nature, they are best suited for people with dry-heat constitutions.
Among numerous pearl powder products on the market, many manufacturers claim their products are water-soluble, ultra-fine, and highly absorbable, some even using the term "nanoparticles." Nevertheless, industry experts warn consumers against counterfeit or inferior products, urging them to purchase from reputable pharmacies and trusted brands.