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Astragalus, known as Huang Qi (黄芪) in Chinese, is classified as a “superior” herb in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing. Many medical texts explain that “Qi” means longevity, and the herb’s yellow color signifies its role as a premier tonic for Qi, hence the name. According to Qing Dynasty scholar Huang Gongxiu, “Huang Qi is the best among Qi tonics, thus it is called Qi.” The Da Ming Ri Hua Ben Cao states, “Huang Qi is a tonic herb, also referred to as ‘mutton’ (羊肉).” Historically, the best quality Huang Qi comes from the Longxi area and Shanxi Province, with the most famous being from Qinzou, Shanxi. Ginseng, Codonopsis, and Huang Qi are all essential Qi tonics. Ginseng greatly replenishes Yuan Qi and is a strong Qi tonic; Codonopsis has a moderate Qi tonifying effect, specifically benefiting the spleen and lungs; Huang Qi, while weaker than ginseng, has the ability to raise Yang and lift sinking Qi, as well as functions to stabilize the exterior, stop sweating, counteract toxins, promote tissue regeneration, and reduce edema, making it the most commonly used Qi tonic. Let’s explore the functions and efficacy of Huang Qi, along with its side effects and contraindications!
01
Functions and Efficacy of Huang Qi
1. Strengthens the Body
Huang Qi tea has the effect of enhancing physical constitution. Scientists have demonstrated through experiments that animals consuming Huang Qi water gained weight significantly faster than those that did not. From a TCM perspective, regularly drinking Huang Qi water can improve mental well-being, alleviate shortness of breath, effectively enhance immune function, and prevent colds.
2. Assists in Osteoporosis
For patients with osteoporosis, Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang (黄芪桂枝五物汤) can be appropriately chosen to effectively assist with lower limb numbness.
3. Prevents and Treats Chronic Rhinitis
Boiling Huang Qi with Bai Zhu (白术) and Fang Feng (防风) to drink can effectively assist with symptoms such as spontaneous sweating, night sweats, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and colds.
4. Enhances Myocardial Contractility
The benefits of drinking Huang Qi water include not only strengthening the body but also enhancing myocardial contractility, effectively preventing circulatory failure.
5. Assists in Spleen Qi Deficiency
Drinking Huang Qi water has many benefits, including preventing and treating Spleen Qi deficiency. Common symptoms of Spleen Qi deficiency include fatigue, shortness of breath, and excessive phlegm. Boiling Huang Qi with Codonopsis, Bai Zhu, and Fu Ling (茯苓) can effectively prevent chronic rhinitis.
02
Side Effects and Contraindications of Huang Qi
Huang Qi is a warming tonic; therefore, it should be avoided in cases of heat syndromes, such as fever, hemoptysis, heat toxins, Qi stagnation, and constipation. Additionally, Huang Qi should not be used in the following situations:
First, during the acute phase of hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke.
Second, in cases of cerebral edema.
Third, those with Yin deficiency and internal heat, or food stagnation and abdominal distension should avoid it.
Fourth, when assisting with chronic hepatitis, the dosage should not be excessive, as it may affect the reduction of transaminases.
Fifth, patients with excessive anger and liver Qi stagnation should not take it.
Moreover, caution should be exercised when using Huang Qi in late pregnancy, as clinical literature reports that improper use of Huang Qi in late pregnancy has led to overdue pregnancies and difficult labor due to fetal macrosomia.
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