Astragalus (Huang Qi) is not commonly seen in our daily lives, but it offers numerous benefits, such as nourishing the lungs, spleen, liver, and kidneys, achieving detoxification, reducing swelling, alleviating heat, and providing antibacterial and stress-relief effects.
But do you really understand Astragalus? What are the effects of soaking Astragalus in water? Is it better to use more Astragalus? The facts may differ from your assumptions. Today, let us debunk some misconceptions and seek the truth.
How much Astragalus should be used for soaking in water?
When using Astragalus for soaking, it is recommended to use 5 to 10 grams at a time and steep it in boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes before consumption. It can be steeped multiple times, up to 2 to 3 times. However, it is important to use boiling water for each infusion to maximize the benefits of Astragalus. Note that overnight Astragalus water should not be consumed.
Additionally, avoid excessive consumption of Astragalus. If more than 15 grams is used, it may disrupt the balance between bodily systems, leading to various adverse reactions such as palpitations, shortness of breath, irritability, decreased sleep quality, and flushed cheeks.
For women who often experience deficiency of qi and blood, using about 30 grams of Astragalus combined with 15 grams of Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi) for decoction can be very effective for restoring vitality, even during special periods.
When is the best time to drink Astragalus water?
There are no specific time requirements for consuming Astragalus water, but it is best to avoid drinking it before bedtime to prevent sleep disturbances.
In the morning, soaking Astragalus for 15 to 20 minutes before breakfast and drinking it afterward can help kickstart a vibrant day. Remember to use boiling water for steeping!
What are the benefits of regularly drinking Astragalus water?
1. Strengthening the body
Research shows that consuming Astragalus water can significantly increase the levels of albumin and total serum protein in the body, thereby strengthening the body. Studies indicate that individuals who regularly consume Astragalus water show significant improvements in resistance, immunity, and anti-aging compared to those who do not.
2. Enhancing myocardial contractility
Consistent consumption of Astragalus water can effectively improve myocardial circulation and enhance myocardial contractility, strengthening the body and preventing heart failure.
3. Treating gastritis
Gastritis is a chronic condition that requires long-term care for recovery. Astragalus is a common herb used in the treatment of gastritis, effectively protecting the gastric mucosa, reducing damage from other irritating foods, alleviating protein levels in urine, and relieving pain associated with gastritis, thus maintaining the gastric mucosa in a healthy state.
4. Preventing fatigue and shortness of breath
Especially during the summer and autumn, people are prone to fatigue and shortness of breath. Drinking more Astragalus water can help improve daily energy levels, enhance facial complexion, and boost the body’s immunity against external environmental factors, effectively preventing colds.
5. Treating hypertension
Hypertension is a common condition among the elderly, often caused by lower limb circulation disorders leading to swelling. Drinking Astragalus water can help alleviate lower limb swelling and improve circulation, thereby reducing blood pressure.
6. Treating Helicobacter pylori positive gastric ulcers
When using Astragalus to treat Helicobacter pylori positive gastric ulcers, 50 grams of Astragalus should be steeped in boiling water for half an hour and consumed daily for a month as a treatment course, effectively alleviating symptoms.
7. Treating chronic rhinitis
Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes), Astragalus, and Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia) are like a “iron triangle” in traditional Chinese medicine. Decocting them together can effectively treat chronic rhinitis and improve nasal congestion.
In summary, regularly drinking Astragalus water can effectively improve physical condition, enhance immunity, and is very beneficial to health. It has become a popular lifestyle habit among the public.