Whether taking Chinese herbs affects the Carbon 14 test depends on the specific ingredients of the herbs, and it is up to the doctor to determine when the test should be performed.
Some Chinese medicines such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Rhizoma Coptidis, Cyperus rotundus and Dandelion can improve the symptoms associated with H. pylori infection, which may affect the Carbon 14 test results, leading to a decrease in accuracy. It is recommended that patients inform their doctor in advance of the Chinese medicines they are taking, so that the doctor can determine the impact on the test results and clarify the specific time for the test.
Before the specific test, you need to inform your doctor of all the drugs you are currently using and your past medical history. For those who are taking quadruple drugs to kill Helicobacter pylori, review the results again four weeks after stopping the drugs.
If there is any discomfort, consult a doctor in time, under the guidance of the doctor’s treatment.