Farewell in the mountains, as the sun sets, I close the wooden door.The spring grass will be green next year, will the noble son return?This is from the poem “Farewell” by the Tang Dynasty poet Wang Wei, where the “noble son” is also an ancient name for a traditional Chinese medicine. Huang Qi (Astragalus) is referred to as “Wang Sun” and is mentioned in the “Yao Xing Lun” by Zhen Quan, a contemporary of Wang Wei, and later included in the “Ben Cao Gang Mu” by the Ming Dynasty pharmacologist Li Shizhen. Huang Qi, formerly written as “Qi”, is known for its long growth and is called the “king of tonics” by Li Shizhen. Huang Qi has a sweet and slightly warm taste, with functions of tonifying Qi, stopping sweating, promoting urination and reducing swelling, and detoxifying and promoting tissue regeneration. Huang Qi has a wide range of applications and is favored by many famous figures.Empress Liu and Huang QiThe “Old Book of Tang: Biography of Medical Techniques” records that during the Tang Dynasty, Xu Yinzong served under the King of Xin Cai of the Southern Chen. Empress Liu suddenly suffered a stroke and was unable to speak. Despite consulting many famous doctors, there was no effect. Because she could not take medicine due to her inability to speak, her condition worsened day by day, and the King of Xin Cai was extremely anxious. However, Xu Yinzong, who was proficient in medicine, suggested using hot soup steam therapy to treat the Empress. He boiled a large quantity of Huang Qi and Fang Feng together, placed the soup under the Empress’s bed, and the medicinal vapor enveloped her. That night, she was able to speak. After a period of adjustment, the Empress recovered to her previous state.Empress Liu’s sudden stroke was due to her old age, weakness, and Qi and blood imbalance. Huang Qi is warm in nature, good at tonifying Qi, lifting Yang, and stabilizing the exterior; Fang Feng is slightly warm, good at dispelling wind and relieving dampness. Li Gao said: “Huang Qi combined with Fang Feng enhances its efficacy.” Together, they can both tonify Qi and stabilize the exterior while promoting health, and also dispel wind and regulate Qi and blood, precisely addressing the pathology. Additionally, the hot steam can warm and open the meridians, promote the circulation of Qi and blood, moisten the skin, open the pores, and enhance the absorption of the medicinal components, thus achieving results in a short time.Yuan Mei and Huang QiYuan Mei, styled Zicai, was from Qiantang, Zhejiang. He was a successful scholar during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, exceptionally talented, and his poetry and prose were renowned in Jiangnan. He was known for his culinary expertise and authored the “Suiyuan Shidan”, an important work in Chinese culinary history, preserving valuable historical materials. His love for food led him to a deep connection with Huang Qi.One summer, after turning seventy, Yuan Mei suffered from dysentery due to his indulgence in food, experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea with mucus and blood in his stool. Despite treatment from doctors, his condition showed no significant improvement. A doctor, considering Yuan Mei’s age and weakness, prescribed Huang Qi and Ren Shen (Ginseng) as tonics, which resulted in a worsening of his condition due to the blockage of evil Qi. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that diarrhea is caused by dampness, heat, and other toxic evils remaining in the intestines, leading to dysfunction. During treatment, one must assess the situation; when evil Qi is strong, it is necessary to allow it to exit rather than using warming tonics, which can cause Qi stagnation and prevent the expulsion of evil. Only after the evil Qi has been expelled can one consider using warming tonics to nourish the stomach and intestines. Therefore, inappropriately using tonics can lead to the common saying of “closing the door to the bandits.” Later, an old friend named Zhang Zhi advised him to take self-made Da Huang (Rhubarb), which doctors believed was too strong for the patient. Eventually, Yuan Mei took Da Huang and recovered, composing a poem to thank his old friend:The medicine can communicate with the divine, it is not false; the general actually saved the white cloud husband. The doctor without prejudice lives; when the illness is critical, the courage is also bold.Yuan Mei’s case illustrates that taking tonics like Huang Qi without addressing the underlying condition is akin to adding fuel to the fire and exacerbating the situation, leading to a critical state. After making a decisive change, he switched to using Da Huang to clear heat, detoxify, and promote bowel movements, ultimately turning his condition around. This shows that medication must be symptom-specific to be effective.Su Shi and Huang QiLonely lamp illuminating shadows in the long night, I pick a flower branch but cannot bear to look.White hair leans on the hairpin, ashamed of the colors; Huang Qi porridge is served on the spring plate.As the east cooks the dog, the sun begins to rise, and the southern path competes with the ox lying in a group.Old man has never been shallow, who in the corner has full joy?In the quiet residence, sick and forbidding smoke, I have wasted a year on famous flowers.Today, the lord does not force joy; the new spring scenery is beautiful for whom?The young scholar’s home is a thousand miles away, the old man with white hair leans on a hundred coins.Why not come and ask about the illness, already called to scatter flowers in the sky?(Su Dongpo, “On the Day of Spring, Inviting An Guo and Asking Yu Gong to Come, Though I Cannot Drink”)Huang Qi is not only a famous medicine but is also widely used in dietary therapy. Huang Qi porridge is a traditional medicinal porridge in China, which became popular during the Song Dynasty. Su Shi’s mention of “Huang Qi porridge served on the spring plate” indicates that he had consumed Huang Qi porridge. The famous old TCM doctor Yue Meizhong once used a modified Huang Qi porridge to treat chronic nephritis, adding 30 grams of Yi Yi Ren (Job’s Tears), 15 grams of Chi Xiao Dou (Adzuki Beans), 9 grams of Ji Nei Jin (Chicken Gizzard Lining), 2 pieces of Jin Ju (Kumquat), and 30 grams of glutinous rice. First, boil 30 grams of Huang Qi in 600 milliliters of water, then add the above ingredients to extract the juice, and cook the rice until done, taking it twice daily as “Compound Huang Qi Porridge”, which has shown significant efficacy. It is commonly said that Huang Qi stewed with jujubes, Huang Qi stewed with field frogs, Huang Qi stewed with snake meat, and Huang Qi with Cordyceps stewed with pangolins are excellent remedies for those who are weak and have been ill for a long time.In summary, Huang Qi, known as the king of tonics, has a wide range of applications. Drinking Huang Qi soaked in water can treat fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Combining Huang Qi with Fang Feng, Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Gan Cao (Licorice), Sheng Jiang (Ginger), and Da Zao (Jujube) can prevent and treat low immune function and recurrent colds. Huang Qi combined with Mu Li (Oyster Shell), Fu Xiao Mai (Elymus), and Ma Huang Gen (Ephedra Root) can treat night sweats. Huang Qi combined with Bai Zhu, Fang Ji (Stephania), Sheng Jiang, and Da Zao can treat edema. Huang Qi combined with Dang Shen (Codonopsis), Bai Zhu, Gan Cao, Zhi Ke (Bitter Orange), Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga), and Chai Hu (Bupleurum) can treat prolapse of the rectum, uterus, or internal organs. Huang Qi combined with Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel), Ma Ren (Sesame), and honey can treat constipation in the elderly or postpartum women. Huang Qi combined with Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Bai Shao (White Peony), Gan Cao, Sheng Jiang, and Da Zao can treat abdominal cold pain and joint or muscle pain. Huang Qi combined with Chuan Shan Jia (Pangolin), Zao Jiao Ci (Soapberry), Dang Gui (Angelica), Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage), Jin Hua (Honeysuckle), and Bai Zhi (Angelica Dahurica) can treat abscesses with internal pus that have not ruptured. Huang Qi combined with Sheng Yi Mi (Job’s Tears), Chi Xiao Dou, Ji Nei Jin, Chen Pi, and glutinous rice can treat chronic nephritis and residual edema from pyelonephritis. However, it should be noted that those with thin and rapid pulses and red tongue, indicating TCM kidney Yin deficiency, should not take Huang Qi.
There are many varieties of Chinese herbs, and Huang Qi is one of the most commonly used medicines, favored by both practitioners and patients. Its application history is long, and its efficacy is remarkable, further being called the “king of tonics” by Li Shizhen, with extremely wide applications.
Yellow color and vitality signify longevity
Huang Qi was historically written as “Huang Qi”, and the “Ben Cao Gang Mu” explains: “Qi means long. Huang Qi is yellow in color, being the king of tonics, hence the name.” “Huang” indicates the color of Huang Qi, while “Qi” summarizes its ability to tonify, replenish, and delay the aging of the human body. Additionally, Huang Qi has other names such as Bai Ben, Du Shen, Dai Shen, and Wang Sun, all of which relate to its growth characteristics.The reason Huang Qi is regarded by ancient people as the “king of tonics” stems from its growing environment and characteristics: high-quality Huang Qi grows in Inner Mongolia, Gansu, and Ningxia. These areas are arid and lack water, with significant temperature differences between day and night and ample sunlight, allowing Huang Qi to grow tall and straight, with lush branches and leaves, absorbing the essence of water, thus possessing significant sweet and warm tonifying Qi and delaying aging effects.
Multiple benefits for the spleen and lungs
Huang Qi is slightly warm and sweet, entering the lung and spleen meridians, capable of ascending and descending, and stabilizing both exterior and interior, with significant Qi tonifying effects. It can elevate Yang, stabilize the exterior, stop sweating, promote urination and reduce swelling, invigorate blood, nourish blood, and generate fluids to quench thirst. It can be used for the following aspects.
Conditions of Spleen Qi Deficiency
Huang Qi is yellow and belongs to the earth, entering the spleen meridian, and has a very significant effect on tonifying spleen Qi.
1. Tonifying the Middle and Benefiting Qi. It treats symptoms caused by spleen Qi deficiency such as loss of appetite, fatigue in the limbs, pale complexion, and emaciation, effective whether used alone or in combination, generally in larger doses, preferably using roasted Huang Qi.
2. Elevating Yang and Lifting Prolapse. It is used for dizziness caused by spleen Qi deficiency leading to the failure of clear Yang to rise, and for prolapse of internal organs such as gastric prolapse and renal prolapse due to insufficient spleen Qi. Huang Qi not only has a strong tonifying effect on spleen Qi but also can elevate Yang and stabilize Qi, making it a key medicine for treating conditions of clear Yang not rising and central Qi sinking, often combined with Chai Hu and Sheng Ma, generally in larger doses, such as in the “Ren Shen Bai Du San”.
Conditions of Lung Qi Deficiency
Huang Qi enters the lung meridian, sweet and warm, with significant effects on tonifying lung Qi, applicable to various conditions of lung Qi deficiency.
1. Benefiting the Lungs and Stabilizing the Exterior to Stop Sweating. When lung Qi is deficient, the exterior is not solid, making it easy to be invaded by external pathogens, leading to external infections; when lung Qi is deficient, the opening and closing of sweat pores are abnormal, resulting in spontaneous sweating and excessive sweating. Huang Qi enters the lung meridian, can tonify lung Qi, stabilize the exterior, and stop sweating, making it a key medicine for treating body weakness with external infections, spontaneous sweating, and excessive sweating, often combined with Fang Feng and Bai Zhu, such as in the “Yu Ping Feng San”.
2. Benefiting the Lungs, Stopping Cough, and Alleviating Asthma. It is mainly used for chronic cough and asthma due to lung Qi deficiency, lung and kidney deficiency, or lung and spleen Qi deficiency, characterized by prolonged cough, wheezing upon exertion, and shallow breathing, commonly seen in chronic bronchitis, COPD, pulmonary bullae, and emphysema.
Qi Deficiency and Edema
Qi deficiency leads to insufficient propulsion, causing water and fluids to fail to circulate and be expelled from the body, resulting in edema. Huang Qi can benefit Qi and promote urination to reduce swelling, commonly used for Qi deficiency edema, often combined with Fu Ling and Fang Ji, commonly seen in chronic nephritis and various renal edema.
Blood-related Conditions
In TCM, there is a saying that “Qi is the master of blood”, meaning Qi can generate, circulate, and retain blood, ensuring sufficient blood flows normally in the vessels. Qi deficiency leads to insufficient blood production, causing blood deficiency. By tonifying Qi, blood production can be promoted, and Huang Qi is one of the most important herbs for tonifying Qi and generating blood, often combined with Dang Gui, with Huang Qi’s dosage being five times that of Dang Gui, as in the “Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang”.
Similarly, Qi deficiency leads to fatigue, and poor blood circulation can easily cause blood stasis, such as in post-stroke sequelae, which often manifests as Qi deficiency and blood stasis. Therefore, in treatment, promoting blood circulation through Qi tonification can help resolve blood stasis, often combined with Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, and Chi Shao, as in the “Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang”.
Diabetes
Qi deficiency leads to an inability to generate and promote the flow of body fluids, resulting in symptoms such as edema or thirst. Huang Qi, through its Qi tonifying action, can both generate and promote the flow of fluids, and elevate fluids, making it a key medicine for treating diabetes. Modern research has also proven that Huang Qi has significant blood sugar-lowering effects.
Chronic Ulcers and Non-healing Wounds
Some patients in surgery or dermatology have local ulcers and abscesses that do not heal for a long time, due to weak constitution and insufficient Qi and blood. In treatment, in addition to draining pus, it is also necessary to tonify Qi and blood and promote wound healing. Huang Qi can tonify Qi and promote tissue regeneration, combined with Dang Gui and Jin Yin Hua (Honeysuckle), can be used for the later stages of skin ulcers and abscesses.
Dosage Must Be Clear
Huang Qi is widely used, not only as a common medicine for practitioners but also as a common item for health maintenance. It can be used in various forms, such as porridge, soup, and tea, which raises the issue of dosage.For medicinal use, the dosage of Huang Qi in decoctions varies widely, from 10 to 60 grams, or even more, depending on the condition being treated and the ratio of Huang Qi to other herbs used.For dietary use, the dosage of Huang Qi should not be excessive, generally controlled below 10 grams per day, as excessive use can lead to internal heat and abdominal distension and other adverse reactions.For those without obvious Qi deficiency, it is not recommended to consume Huang Qi casually. Those with cold, fever, excessive evil Qi, food stagnation, internal damp-heat, or heat toxins should avoid Huang Qi.Three Types of People Should Not Drink Huang Qi Water1. Those with Kidney Yin Deficiency, Damp-Heat, or Excessive Heat Toxins should not drink Huang Qi water.If there is Kidney Yin deficiency, damp-heat, or excessive heat toxins, it is best not to take Huang Qi water, as it will not help the body recover health and may worsen the condition.2. Women during Menstruation should not drink Huang Qi water.Women who are menstruating should also not take Huang Qi water, as it may adversely affect menstruation and the body.3. Those with Cold and Fever should not drink Huang Qi.Patients with cold and fever should not take Huang Qi, as it may affect the relief of cold or fever symptoms.
Five Types of People Can Drink Huang Qi WaterQi deficiency is the source of all diseases, leading to bronchitis, asthma, atrophic gastritis, uterine prolapse, rectal prolapse, myocardial ischemia, osteoporosis, memory decline, general weakness, and organ dysfunction, while coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, cerebral ischemia, and senile dementia are all serious states of Qi deficiency and blood stasis, which are common causes of aging and death. Therefore, middle-aged and elderly friends must pay attention to Qi tonification. Huang Qi, as a top Qi tonic, is very effective for the following five types of people:1. Spleen Qi DeficiencyDrinking Huang Qi water has many benefits, including treating spleen Qi deficiency. Common symptoms of spleen Qi deficiency include fatigue, shortness of breath, and excessive phlegm. Boiling Huang Qi with Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, and Fu Ling can effectively treat spleen deficiency.2. HypertensionMany hypertensive patients, especially the elderly, are prone to lower body edema. Drinking Huang Qi water can effectively eliminate edema and lower blood pressure.3. DiabetesGeneral diabetes patients often have edema and a waxy complexion. Drinking Huang Qi water can alleviate these symptoms to some extent. If there are lower limb ulcers, adding Ge Gen (Pueraria), Chi Shao, and Dan Shen (Salvia) will yield better results.4. PsoriasisPsoriasis, commonly known as “cowhide disease”, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Preparing 30 grams each of Huang Qi, Dang Gui, Sheng Di, and Bai Ji Li, and decocting them in water twice a day can help treat this condition.5. Cardiovascular DiseasesHuang Qi has heart-strengthening, blood pressure-lowering, and anti-arrhythmic effects. Patients with heart disease, angina, coronary heart disease, and hypertension can use about 30 grams of Huang Qi daily, decocted as tea, or combined with Goji Berries and Dang Shen for better cardiovascular protection.Best Combinations for Taking Huang Qi1. Huang Qi + Goji BerriesThe “Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing” states that Goji Berries “when taken for a long time, strengthen the bones, prolong life, and endure cold and heat.” The “Ben Cao Hui Yan” praises it as “Qi can be replenished, blood can be supplemented, Yang can be generated, and Yin can be prolonged.” Combining Goji Berries with Huang Qi has good health effects, such as:Effectively Anti-Aging: Goji Berries have adaptogenic properties similar to ginseng, can combat arteriosclerosis, lower blood sugar, and promote liver cell regeneration, thus enhancing physical fitness and delaying aging.Improving Sleep Quality: Goji Berries can be consumed year-round, and regular consumption can improve physical fitness and alleviate sleep issues such as poor sleep quality and difficulty falling asleep.Enhancing Memory: Goji Berries are known as “wisdom fruit”; when combined with Huang Qi, they can improve brain memory and enhance learning ability, suitable for students and office workers.2. Huang Qi + Dang GuiIn TCM, Dang Gui is sweet and warm, nourishing and moistening, and can promote blood circulation. It enters the liver, heart, and spleen meridians. When combined with Huang Qi, it can:Regulate Menstruation and Alleviate Pain: Many women experience irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and various gynecological diseases. Drinking Huang Qi with Dang Gui can not only eliminate gynecological inflammation but also normalize menstruation and reduce pain.Prevent Arteriosclerosis: Dang Gui can effectively inhibit arteriosclerosis and promote the growth of red blood cells, nourishing and replenishing blood.3. Huang Qi + Jin Yin HuaClearing Heat and Detoxifying: Jin Yin Hua is an excellent medicine for clearing heat and detoxifying. It is sweet and cold, clearing heat without harming the stomach, and can dispel evil and eliminate dampness.Regulating Chronic Kidney Disease: Huang Qi and Jin Yin Hua are a perfect pair in treating various kidney diseases.Alleviating Skin Itching: Regularly drinking Jin Yin Hua water can effectively relieve skin itching.4. Huang Qi + Dan ShenIn TCM, Dan Shen invigorates blood, while Huang Qi tonifies Qi, so their combination can benefit Qi and invigorate blood, applicable for chest pain and heart pain caused by Qi deficiency and blood stasis. For patients with coronary heart disease, it can improve blood supply to the coronary arteries, especially for those with fatigue, chest tightness, and spontaneous sweating. Additionally, it can:Alleviate Chest Pain and Palpitations: Young people under pressure often feel chest tightness and difficulty breathing; drinking Huang Qi and Dan Shen soup can effectively relieve these symptoms.Inhibit Hyperplasia: The combination of Huang Qi and Dan Shen can inhibit excessive proliferation of fibroblasts.Combat Thrombosis: Overweight individuals and the elderly are prone to thrombosis; drinking Dan Shen water can clear vascular waste, smooth blood vessels, and reduce the formation of thrombosis.5. American Ginseng + Huang QiIn TCM, both American Ginseng and Huang Qi have Qi tonifying and deficiency-replenishing effects. Since American Ginseng also nourishes the heart and enhances cardiac function, the combination of American Ginseng and Huang Qi tea can serve as an excellent auxiliary treatment for myocarditis.The medicinal effects of American Ginseng and Huang Qi complement each other; regular consumption can enhance immune function and lower blood pressure, providing good regulatory effects for patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.Usage: Use 3 grams each of American Ginseng and Huang Qi, add 300 milliliters of water to brew a pot of health tea, steep for 10 minutes before drinking, and you can add water to the teapot until the flavor is weak.“Life depends on Qi”; when Qi is abundant, external evils cannot invade, and internal evils cannot disturb. Proper use of Huang Qi can prolong life without illness! Remember the “Five Drinks and Three Avoidances” of Huang Qi, and share it with those in need!Ten Combinations of Huang QiHuang Qi first appeared in the “Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing”, referred to as Dai Shan, classified as a superior herb, stating: “It treats abscesses, chronic ulcers, drains pus, and stops pain, as well as major wind diseases, five types of hemorrhoids, and mouse fistula, tonifying deficiency, and treating various diseases in children.” Later generations discovered its ability to tonify Qi, elevate Yang, benefit the exterior, drain toxins, promote tissue regeneration, and reduce swelling. Its mild properties allow it to treat various deficiencies, making it the king of tonics, hence the name change.Wang Haogu in “Tang Ye Ben Cao” stated: “It treats Qi deficiency, spontaneous sweating, and self-sweating, being a surface medicine… it also treats hemoptysis, softens the spleen and stomach, thus it is a medicine for the middle and lower jiao.”However, the effectiveness of these different functions depends on the combinations used.Based on decades of learning from predecessors and combining my clinical experience, I summarize the insights on the use of Huang Qi into ten combinations for reference, hoping to benefit the treatment of acute diseases and difficult syndromes.1. Combined with Gui Ban to Elevate Yin and Stabilize MenorrhagiaZhu Danxi stated about Gui Ban: “It nourishes Yin, addresses insufficient Yin blood, removes blood stasis, stops bleeding, strengthens bones, and treats fatigue and weakness in the limbs.” The predecessors who best utilized Gui Ban were Ye Gui and Wu Tang.Ye focused on gynecological diseases, emphasizing the theory of extraordinary meridians, believing that for women suffering from prolonged illness with deficient blood or continuous bleeding, “both essence and blood have feelings; using insentient herbs for nourishment will not resonate with them,” emphasizing the need to use nourishing animal products to replenish the essence and blood, thus achieving significant effects.Wu Tang further elaborated in “Wen Bing Tiao Bian” that “treating the lower jiao is like using a lever; it must be heavy and not light,” creating numerous formulas containing Gui Ban, widely used for treating liver and kidney deficiencies in internal, gynecological, and pediatric diseases. Among them, there are formulas that combine with nourishing Yin herbs and those that combine with strong Qi tonics like Ren Shen, but none combined with Huang Qi.Through clinical practice and based on Wang Qingren’s use of “Gu Kai Gu San (Dang Gui 2 liang, Gui Ban 8 qian, Chuan Xiong 5 qian, Xue Yu Tan 1 lump) to treat difficult childbirth, adding Huang Qi 4 liang, the fetus will descend immediately,” I often combine these two herbs to treat gynecological conditions such as Qi deficiency and kidney deficiency leading to menorrhagia, leukorrhea, difficult childbirth, and various internal injuries such as rectal prolapse, heel pain, and weakness in the knees.However, since Gui Ban is too nourishing and has a salty and fishy taste, and Huang Qi is sweet and can be cloying, for those with a weak spleen and stomach, it is often necessary to add some aromatic herbs to facilitate digestion.[Example]Fan, a 30-year-old female, was first diagnosed on February 17, 1963. She had tuberculosis and was weak, with heavy menstrual bleeding for half a month after attending a banquet, which turned into continuous dripping. When I was invited to diagnose her, she appeared pale, with tinnitus and dizziness, irritability, shortness of breath, emaciation, tidal fever, night sweats, dry mouth, and constipation, with abdominal pain and purple menstrual blood with small clots. Her tongue was pale red with slight purple spots and little fur, and her pulse was thin and rapid. This indicated a sudden loss of Yin blood, making it difficult for Qi to stabilize. Additionally, there was a combination of blood stasis, making treatment difficult. Following Zhu Nanshan’s advice, I urgently used Gui Ban to nourish the blood of the Ren Meridian, combined with Huang Qi to regulate blood flow, and once the blood returned to the meridians, the bleeding would stop.Medicinal use: Sheng Huang Qi and Zhi Gui Ban each 30 grams, Sheng Di and Bai Shao each 20 grams, Mai Dong and Di Yu each 15 grams, Dang Gui, Xue Yu Tan, and Chao Zhi Bai each 10 grams. After 3 doses, the bleeding gradually stopped, but her appetite decreased. I removed Mai Dong and reduced Zhi Bai to 7 grams, adding Xiang Fu 10 grams, Lu Mei Hua 7 grams, and Jiao Zhi 10 grams, and after another 3 doses, the bleeding stopped and other symptoms also improved. Considering her excessive blood loss, I prescribed Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang, removing Chuan Xiong and Rou Gui, adding Gui Ban, Xiang Fu, and Di Yu each 10 grams, and continued for 7 doses until she recovered.2. Combined with Shan Yao to Benefit Qi, Nourish Yin, and Lower Blood SugarFamous physician Shi Jinmo believed Huang Qi is sweet and warm, entering the Taiyin Qi channels of the hands and feet, tonifying Qi and stopping thirst; Shan Yao is sweet and neutral, nourishing the Yin fluids of the lungs, spleen, and kidneys. One Yang and one Yin can lower blood sugar and reduce urine sugar.Japan has also used Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang to cure elderly women with frequent urination. Both utilize Huang Qi’s ability to “stop thirst… benefit Qi, and nourish Yin Qi” (from “Bie Lu”). Teacher Zhu Shen Yu further created effective formulas for treating various types of diabetes based on the combination of these two herbs.Modern pharmacology has confirmed that the combination of these two herbs can enhance the immune function of patients and increase resistance to diseases. Therefore, it can not only lower blood sugar and eliminate urine sugar but can also use Huang Qi compound (Sheng Huang Qi, Shan Yao, Bai Zhu, Chen Pi, Sheng Di, and Fu Ling) to prevent colds (from “Ancient and Modern Medicinal Formulas” page 283), and can also be used when other diseases present with Qi and Yin deficiency symptoms.For spleen Yin deficiency, the two herbs can be used together, imitating the Shen Rou Yang Zhen Tang (which is the Si Jun Zi Tang plus Huang Qi, Shan Yao, Bai Shao, Lian Zi, Mai Dong, and Wu Wei Zi) for excellent results.[Example]Hong, a 45-year-old female, was first diagnosed in early October 1977. She had diabetes for over 3 years, had taken hypoglycemic medications with little effect, and her condition had worsened recently, leading to significant weight loss. She was transferred for diagnosis. Upon examination, her complexion was pale, she was weak and dizzy, had a weak heart, was hungry, thirsty, and urinated frequently, with a pale red tongue and little fur, and a thin and rapid pulse.Her urine sugar was (+++), and her blood sugar was 340 mg/dl, indicating Yin deficiency and Yang excess, with weak Qi and kidney deficiency.Medicinal use: Huang Qi and Shan Yao each 30 grams, Sheng Di and Mai Dong each 20 grams, Hua Fen, Zhi Mu, Ge Gen, Goji Berries, and Nu Zhen Zi each 15 grams, Wu Wei Zi and Shan Yao each 7 grams. After 5 doses, her symptoms improved, and the “three more” symptoms were halved. After continuing for 48 doses, all symptoms disappeared, and she returned to normal.Tests showed urine sugar and blood sugar were both negative.3. Combined with Fang Feng to Support the Right Qi, Release the Exterior, and Stop Spontaneous SweatingFang Feng is a key herb for dispelling wind and relieving dampness, promoting sweating. Dong Yuan praised it as “the moistening agent among wind herbs. If tonifying the spleen and stomach, this herb must be used.” He emphasized that “Fang Feng can control Huang Qi, and Huang Qi combined with Fang Feng enhances its efficacy, as they complement each other.”Dan Xi, inspired by Dong Yuan, combined Huang Qi three times the amount of Fang Feng and Bai Zhu to create the “Yu Ping Feng San”, allowing for tonification while also dispersing, combining both functions to treat spontaneous sweating due to Qi deficiency and weak exterior.The “Old Book of Tang” records Xu Yinzong treating Empress Liu’s wind illness by boiling Huang Qi and Fang Feng together, steaming them under her bed, allowing the medicinal power to penetrate through the pores, and she recovered in a week (as seen in the “Ben Cao Si Bian Lu”). This can also be seen as a variation of the “Yu Ping Feng San”.Wang Qingren used 4 liang of Sheng Huang Qi and 1 qian of Fang Feng to create Huang Qi Fang Feng Tang, believing it to be effective for treating rectal prolapse, regardless of whether it had been ten or eight years.In my clinical practice, I have also found that using 1 liang of Sheng Huang Qi combined with 3 qian of Fang Feng, along with blood-activating and dampness-dispelling herbs, is particularly effective for treating wind-dampness invading the Yang Qi, leading to wind-damp arthritis or wind-damp myositis.For example, imitating Wang Qingren’s Huang Qi Chi Feng Tang (2 liang of Sheng Huang Qi, 1 qian of Chi Shao, and Fang Feng) with modifications can also be effective for treating external injuries or damp-heat with phlegm obstructing the meridians.[Example]Fang, a 63-year-old male, was first diagnosed in March 1953. After reaching his sixties, he gradually felt cold and fatigued, often catching colds. Recently, due to the fluctuating weather, he was affected by external pathogens. He had fever (T38.6C) and profuse sweating for 5 days without relief. He also had a pale yellow complexion, weakness, shortness of breath, cough with phlegm, joint pain, poor appetite, headache, and his tongue was pale with a white coating, and his pulse was floating, weak, and slippery.This indicated a loss of exterior Yang, with sweat leaking due to Qi deficiency.Medicinal use: Sheng Huang Qi 15 grams, Fu Ling, Xing Ren, Bai Zhu, Bai Shao each 9 grams, Fang Feng, Bai Zhi, Chen Pi, Jiang Xia, Gui Zhi, Chao Ku Shen, and Zhi Gan Cao each 6 grams, with 3 slices of ginger and 3 green onions. After just 2 doses, the fever subsided and sweating stopped. The original formula was taken for 3 doses, and all symptoms improved.4. Combined with Fang Ji to Eliminate Dampness and Reduce Edema for Treating Wind WaterHuang Qi can strengthen the heart and promote urination, while Fang Ji directly expels urine. Zhang Zhongjing combined these two herbs to create Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang, a key formula for treating wind water, focusing on eliminating edema in the head, face, and limbs.Zhou Yan commented on Huang Qi, stating: “The Inner Canon regards the San Jiao as the waterway, and the bladder as the water chamber. Huang Qi ascends from the lower jiao to the lungs, invigorating Yang Qi and relieving stagnation, allowing the lungs to regulate the waterway, thus promoting urination (meaning smooth urination), which is indeed Huang Qi’s specialty.”Inspired by this, I have also combined Huang Qi with Fang Ji for cases of edema starting from the head and face due to external pathogens, as well as for cases of internal injury leading to edema below the waist. In clinical practice, I have also observed that if some Qi-regulating herbs are added, such as abdominal skin and areca nut, the effects are even better.For Qi deficiency and dampness leading to lower limb weakness, the two herbs can also be combined with blood-activating and dampness-dispelling herbs to promote blood circulation and relieve pain. For example, in cases of cardiac edema due to inferior vena cava obstruction, using both herbs together, along with blood-activating and dampness-dispelling herbs like Di Long, Ting Li Zi, and Ze Lan, has shown satisfactory results.[Example]Su, a 17-year-old male, was first diagnosed in April 1962. For the past half month, he had experienced swelling in his limbs and face, with significant edema in the lower limbs, pale complexion, palpitations, shortness of breath, profuse sweating, heavy body, and low urine output, with a distended abdomen and dry stools. His tongue was pale and swollen with a white greasy coating, and his pulse was deep.Urine tests showed protein (+++), white blood cells (++), red blood cells (+), transparent casts (+), and granular casts (++). Western medicine diagnosed him with acute glomerulonephritis. This was due to external wind and internal dampness, attacking the skin due to spleen Qi deficiency.Urgently, I prescribed 30 grams of Yi Yi Ren, 18 grams of Sheng Huang Qi and Fu Ling, 9 grams of Fang Ji, Bai Zhu, Ze Xie, and Da Fu Pi, and 6 grams of Chen Pi and Gan Cao, with 3 slices of ginger. After 5 doses, the swelling reduced by half, and after continuing for 10 doses, the swelling completely subsided. The formula was slightly adjusted, and after a month of continuous treatment, all symptoms disappeared, and his physical strength was restored.Urine tests showed protein (+), white blood cells (0-2), and red blood cells (0-1), with casts disappearing.5. Combined with Zhi Shi to Regulate Qi Mechanism and Lower Blood PressureHuang Qi is a key herb for elevating Yang, while Zhi Shi is a divine agent for lowering counterflow. Some scholars have reported that using Huang Qi lightly (10-15 grams) combined with other Qi tonics has a significant blood pressure-raising effect; however, if Huang Qi is used in larger doses (over 1 liang) and combined with Zhi Shi or Sheng Shi Gao (Gypsum), the blood pressure drops rapidly (pharmacological experiments have shown that Huang Qi injection can lower blood pressure while simultaneously reducing peripheral blood pressure). Here, Huang Qi demonstrates a significant bidirectional regulatory effect. Recent scholars like Zhang Xichun have combined large doses of Huang Qi with Shan Yao and Jie Geng to elevate the Yang Qi that has sunk; they also combined Huang Qi with Zhi Shi and Wu Gong to create Qi Wei Tang for treating post-stroke sequelae caused by hypertension.In my experience with Huang Qi and Zhi Shi, I have found it effective for lowering blood pressure, treating dizziness, and even addressing cases of spleen Qi deficiency where clear Qi cannot rise, and turbid Yin rises, causing nausea and vomiting, and even using this method in conjunction with Western medicine to rescue a critically ill patient suffering from uremic vomiting and inability to eat.[Example]Hu, a 61-year-old male, was first diagnosed in August 1964. He enjoyed drinking, which led to high blood pressure for nearly 10 years. Despite treatment from both Chinese and Western medicine, his symptoms fluctuated. Recently, due to drunkenness and anger, his condition worsened.Upon examination, he appeared intoxicated, with tinnitus, dizziness, and difficulty standing, fullness in the chest and pain in the ribs, dry throat, dry mouth, nausea, excessive sweating, shortness of breath, and palpitations, with a dark red tongue and a yellow-white coating, and a wiry pulse. His blood pressure was 29.3/16.0 kPa (220/120 mmHg).This indicated a deficiency of Yin and Qi, with liver Yang and phlegm turbidity counterflowing upwards, posing a risk of internal wind movement.Medicinal use: Sheng Zhi Shi 30 grams, Sheng Huang Qi, Sheng Di Huang, Sheng Bai Shao, and Sheng Mu Li each 20 grams, Chuan Niu Xi, Ming Tian Ma, Gou Teng, and Zhi Ke each 15 grams, Dan Nan Xing, Guang Yu Jin, and Chuan Lian Zi each 10 grams.After 18 doses, his blood pressure dropped to 18.7/12.0 kPa (140/90 mmHg) (his blood pressure fluctuated around 21.3/12.0 kPa, 160/90 mmHg). Other symptoms also stabilized.Afterward, I prescribed 7 doses in pill form, and after a month of continuous treatment, I strongly advised him to quit drinking. Follow-up for 5 years showed no major issues, but he passed away in 1970 due to esophageal cancer.6. Combined with Zhi Ke to Elevate and Stabilize for Treating HerniasHuang Qi is the first choice for tonifying Qi and elevating, while Zhi Ke is an important herb for descending Qi and counterflow. Due to their differing effects and actions on the body, few predecessors have combined Huang Qi with Zhi Ke, except for Zhang Lu, who used Zhi Ke and Fang Feng each 1 liang, and Huang Qi 2 liang to create San Qi San, which is used for treating severe external conditions.However, modern pharmacological studies have shown that Zhi Ke has heart-strengthening, diuretic, and blood pressure-raising effects, and can regulate gastrointestinal motility, treating “cough, edema, constipation, uterine prolapse, and rectal prolapse” (from “Modern Practical Chinese Medicine”).Thus, I have combined Huang Qi with Zhi Ke to treat various organ prolapses caused by Qi sinking.In my experience, using Huang Qi at five times the amount of Zhi Ke yields the best results, not only enhancing the elevating power of Huang Qi but also avoiding excessive elevation that consumes Yin.[Example]Chen, a 35-year-old male, was first diagnosed in September 1967. He had right-sided inguinal hernia for over 10 years, with intermittent symptoms that worsened with labor and cold. Recently, due to fatigue and excessive cold intake, he experienced a major episode. Upon examination, he had pain in the lower abdomen, pulling on the right testicle, causing him to bend over and press his abdomen, making movement difficult. He also had profuse sweating, a pale complexion, and a weak pulse.When lying flat for a long time, the hernia could be pushed back into the abdomen. This was a case of Qi deficiency, complicated by cold invasion, leading to Qi stagnation and hernia pain. The treatment should urgently include warming the liver, dispelling cold, and promoting Qi flow.Medicinal use: Roasted Huang Qi 30 grams, Zhi Ke, Wu Yao, Qing Pi, Xiao Hui, Ju He, and Chuan Lian Zi each 9 grams, Mu Xiang, Chai Hu, and Wu Zhu Yu each 6 grams.After 3 doses, the pain stopped, and after continuing for 7 doses, he recovered. Follow-up for many years showed no recurrence.7. Combined with Dang Gui to Tonify Qi, Generate Blood, and Reduce Deficiency HeatHuang Qi is often used in five times the amount of Dang Gui, and the two herbs form Li Gao’s Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang, which can tonify Qi and generate blood, treating conditions after significant blood loss or excessive internal injury leading to Yin blood deficiency and Yang Qi wanting to disperse.At this time, symptoms often include skin dryness and heat, red face and eyes, thirst, and a desire to drink, resembling the symptoms of the Bai Hu Tang syndrome of Yangming meridian heat, but the pulse is large yet weak upon palpation. If mistakenly treated with Bai Hu, it could be fatal. Therefore, it is crucial to use Huang Qi to strongly tonify the Qi of the spleen and lungs, allowing for the “transformation into red” and nourishing the source of blood; a small amount of Dang Gui can nourish blood and promote circulation, guiding Qi directly into the blood vessels to promote Yang and generate Yin.As Wu He Gao stated: “When blood is sufficient, the body is cool; when blood is deficient, the body is hot… Dang Gui is thick in flavor, being the Yin among Yin, thus it can nourish blood, while Huang Qi is sweet and tonifying Qi. Now, using Huang Qi in larger doses to nourish blood is because the tangible blood cannot generate itself; it is generated by the intangible Qi.”Additionally, these two herbs can also be combined into general tonifying formulas, achieving the mutual generation of Qi and blood, enhancing vitality and activation, serving as a foundational formula for treating aplastic anemia or Qi deficiency leading to a decrease in blood volume, significantly alleviating symptoms. For Qi deficiency with excessive menstrual bleeding or menorrhagia, Huang Qi can be combined with Dang Gui or fried Dang Gui for efficacy, and in orthopedic cases, these two herbs are often combined.[Example]Zhang, a 38-year-old female, was first diagnosed on May 20, 1958. She had been experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding due to heavy lifting for over two weeks, and Western medicine’s use of hemostatic injections and tablets had no effect.Upon examination, she appeared emaciated with a red face, dry skin, a desire to drink, difficulty sleeping, and abdominal pain, with purple menstrual blood containing small clots, a red tongue with little fur, and a rapid pulse. This indicated a deficiency of blood and Yang Qi floating.Medicinal use: Huang Qi 30 grams, Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, Gui Zhi, Zhi Gan Cao, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Shu Di, and Huai Niu Xi each 9 grams, and Ai Ye 6 grams. After 3 doses, the bleeding stopped, and after 10 doses, she was cured.8. Combined with Bai Zhi to Drain Toxins and Promote Pus Discharge for Treating AbscessesThe Tang Dynasty “Ri Hua Zi Ben Cao” already pointed out that Bai Zhi can treat: “breast pain, back pain, lymphatic diseases, intestinal wind, hemorrhoids, pus discharge, sores, scabies, and stop pain and promote tissue regeneration,” while the “Yao Xing” praises Huang Qi as “the best for tonifying deficiency and draining pus.” Therefore, the combination of these two herbs is effective for patients with abscesses and ulcers who have Qi deficiency and blood weakness, with pus resembling thin water and not healing for a long time, as it can support the right Qi and drain the evil, promoting pus discharge and tissue regeneration.As seen in the “Zheng Zhi Zhun Sheng: Pediatric Section” for treating smallpox and ulcers, “using the Ten Supplementary Decoction for treating ulcers with Qi deficiency” and in the “Yi Zong Jin Jian: Essentials of Surgery” for treating brain abscesses with Qi and blood deficiency, when the abscess is about to rupture, the purple area without pus, and the root is large, the “Tuo Li Tuo Pus Decoction” is used.Modern research shows that Huang Qi can enhance capillary resistance, dilate blood vessels, and improve blood circulation, allowing previously damaged muscle cells to regain vitality. Therefore, I not only combine these two herbs with Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin to treat acute abscesses but also combine them with blood-nourishing and pus-draining herbs like Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Pao Jia, and Tian Ding to treat chronic ulcers and abscesses.[Example]Xi, a 15-year-old male, was first diagnosed in June 1986. Every summer, he developed boils and abscesses for three years, and this year, due to the heat, the condition worsened. Each time he developed abscesses, he was injected with penicillin, but gradually developed resistance, rendering it ineffective.Upon examination, he had abscesses all over his head, face, upper limbs, and chest, with redness, swelling, and pain, appearing intermittently, and he also had profuse sweating, cold intolerance, fatigue, and a pale complexion, with a red tongue and thin yellow fur, and a rapid pulse. This indicated that heat toxins invaded due to Qi deficiency.Medicinal use: Sheng Huang Qi 20 grams, Jin Yin Hua, Ye Ju Hua, Pu Gong Ying, Tu Fu Ling, and Bai Zhi each 15 grams, with Chi Shao and Gan Cao each 10 grams.After 3 doses, the abscesses reduced significantly, and the pain also lessened. The ruptured ones drained pus more smoothly, and after continuing for 10 doses, he recovered.9. Combined with Tao Ren to Benefit Qi, Invigorate Blood, and Treat HemiplegiaThe “Dan Xi Xin Fa” states: “When Qi and blood are harmonious, no diseases arise; when there is stagnation, various diseases occur.” Therefore, Wang Qingren often combined Huang Qi, which strongly tonifies Qi, with blood-activating herbs like Tao Ren and Xue Hua to treat hemiplegia and paralysis caused by Qi deficiency and blood stasis.He emphasized that “when the original Qi is deficient, it cannot reach the blood vessels; without Qi, blood will stagnate.” This method of tonifying Qi and invigorating blood, supporting the right Qi while expelling the evil, has greatly inspired future generations. I not only follow this principle to combine these three herbs for treating hemiplegia but also extend it to treat various cardiovascular diseases caused by Qi deficiency and blood stasis, as well as gynecological conditions such as excessive menstruation, menorrhagia, miscarriage, and various benign and malignant tumors in patients with significant Qi deficiency.[Example]Zhou, a 59-year-old male, was first diagnosed on October 16, 1976. He had a history of high blood pressure and suffered a stroke a month ago, resulting in hemiplegia. Western medicine diagnosed it as a cerebral thrombosis. However, despite treatment, there was no significant effect, so he sought my treatment.Upon examination, he appeared pale, weak, and confused, with difficulty speaking, drooling from the mouth, and inability to move the right side of his body. His tongue was dark with many purple spots, and his pulse was thin and wiry. This indicated Qi deficiency and blood stasis, leading to obstruction of the meridians and resulting in hemiplegia.Medicinal use: Sheng Huang Qi 50 grams, Tao Ren, Dan Shen, Chuan Niu Xi each 15 grams, Hong Hua, Di Long, Dang Gui Wei, Chi Bai Shao, Lu Lu Tong, and Zhi Shi each 10 grams, with three Chuan Wu (ground and swallowed).After 7 doses, his consciousness improved, and his speech and drooling improved. After 7 more doses, he could move his lower limbs, but not freely. After another dose, he was able to walk with a cane, and after one more dose, he gradually returned to normal.10. Combined with Gui Zhi and Bai Shao to Nourish Blood, Tonify the Liver, and Regulate Ying and WeiGui Zhi is warm and spicy, reaching the exterior, while Bai Shao is slightly cold and sour, nourishing the liver and benefiting the spleen. The combination of these two herbs is a sacred formula for regulating Ying and Wei and harmonizing Yin and Yang. When combined with Huang Qi, it can nourish blood, tonify the liver, and regulate Ying and Wei, which is essentially Huang Qi’s method of building the center.This method has significant practical value in clinical practice, and can be used to treat various diseases in internal, external, gynecological, and pediatric fields. In treating chronic gastritis, liver, and gallbladder inflammation, digestive ulcers, neuroses, functional uterine bleeding, menopausal syndrome, and unexplained fevers, as long as there are symptoms of liver Qi deficiency or disharmony of Ying and Wei, I will combine these three herbs for treatment, achieving good results.[Example]Huang, a 50-year-old female, was first diagnosed on March 8, 1985. She had been experiencing unexplained abdominal pain for several years, with sudden attacks that varied with her mood. Recently, due to excessive labor, the pain worsened, and she had previously used Western medicine with little effect, so she sought my treatment.Upon examination, she had abdominal distension and pain, with tightness and pulling sensations around the right rib and navel, irritability, spontaneous sweating, cold limbs, palpitations, shortness of breath, poor appetite, and loose stools, with a pale and dark tongue and a wiry pulse. This indicated that the strong wood was invading the earth, causing the Qi of the spleen and stomach to scatter and reverse, leading to distension and pain.The treatment plan was to soften the liver, dispel wood, and tonify the middle earth.Medicinal use: Roasted Huang Qi and fried Bai Shao each 15 grams, Gui Zhi, Bai Zhu, Yan Hu Suo, and fried Chuan Lian each 10 grams, Qing Chen Pi, Chai Hu, and Gan Cao each 6 grams, with 3 slices of ginger and 3 jujubes.After 3 doses, the pain decreased, and after 7 doses, she was cured. Follow-up for 3 years showed no recurrence.
