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Codonopsis (Dang Shen) refers to the plant Codonopsis and its medicinal materials. There are about 40 species of Codonopsis worldwide, with approximately 39 species in China, of which 21 are medicinal and 4 are varieties. The medicinal Codonopsis is the dried root of the perennial herbaceous plants Codonopsis pilosula, Codonopsis tangshen, and other related species in the Campanulaceae family. Codonopsis is a commonly used traditional tonic in China, with the highest quality coming from the Shangdang region of Shanxi, known for its ability to tonify the middle and benefit qi, strengthen the spleen, and nourish the lungs.
Suitable and Unsuitable Groups for Codonopsis
Contraindicated groups: Those with qi stagnation or excess liver fire should avoid it; those with excess pathogenic factors and no deficiency should not use it.
Suitable groups: Those with weak constitutions, insufficient qi and blood, pale complexion, and those recovering from illness or childbirth; those with spleen and stomach qi deficiency, fatigue, weakness in limbs, poor appetite, loose stools, chronic diarrhea, lung qi deficiency, cough with shortness of breath, qi deficiency and weakness, prone to colds; those with qi deficiency and blood deficiency; individuals with chronic nephritis and proteinuria should consume it; those with chronic anemia, chlorosis, leukemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, and rickets.
Effects and Functions of Codonopsis
It is neutral in nature, sweet, and slightly sour. It enters the spleen and lung meridians. It tonifies the middle and benefits qi, strengthens the spleen, and nourishes the lungs. It is used for spleen and lung deficiency, shortness of breath, palpitations, poor appetite, loose stools, weak cough, and internal heat with thirst.
1. Enhances immunity
Codonopsis has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, enhancing the body’s resistance.
2. Lowers blood pressure
It can dilate peripheral blood vessels and lower blood pressure, while also inhibiting the pressor effect of adrenaline.
3. Tonifies the middle and benefits qi
The main function of Codonopsis is to tonify the middle and benefit qi. It is suitable for various qi deficiency conditions. Those with weak limbs, poor appetite, and loose stools should also use Codonopsis.
4. Nourishes blood
Codonopsis not only tonifies qi but also nourishes blood, which is another significant characteristic. Therefore, those with both qi and blood deficiency, shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, pale complexion, dizziness, poor appetite, loose stools, and those prone to colds should also take Codonopsis.
5. Prevents and treats gastric ulcers
It regulates gastrointestinal motility, has anti-ulcer effects, inhibits gastric acid secretion, and reduces gastric protease activity.
Nutritional Value of Codonopsis
Codonopsis contains polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, sterols, volatile oils, vitamins B1 and B2, various essential amino acids, baicalin glycosides, saponins, trace alkaloids, and trace elements.
Selection of Codonopsis
1. Dongdang first grade: length over 20cm, diameter at the base over 1cm, no hair roots. Second grade: length under 20cm, diameter at the base over 0.5cm.
2. Lvdang first grade: diameter at the base over 1cm, no oily roots. Second grade: diameter at the base over 0.8cm, no oily roots. Third grade: diameter at the base over 0.4cm, oily roots not exceeding 10%.
3. Xidang first grade: diameter at the base over 1.5cm, no oily roots. Second grade: diameter at the base over 1cm, no oily roots. Third grade: diameter at the base over 0.6cm, oily roots not exceeding 15%.
4. Tiaodang first grade: diameter at the base over 1.2cm, no oily roots. Second grade: diameter at the base over 0.8cm, no oily roots. Third grade: diameter at the base over 0.5cm, oily roots not exceeding 10%, no root sprouts.
Storage of Codonopsis
Store in a cool, dry place to prevent insect damage.
Health Combinations with Codonopsis
Codonopsis + Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes): for stabilizing pregnancy
Codonopsis + Wu Ji (Black-boned Chicken): can strengthen the spleen and stomach, replenish deficiency
Codonopsis + Mai Dong (Ophiopogon): can harmonize flavors, nourish yin, and generate fluids
Codonopsis + Ge Jie (Gecko): can tonify the spleen and lungs
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