Can Astragalus and Ginseng be taken together?

The first paragraph: summary of content

Astragalus and ginseng are both traditional Qi-tonifying medicinal materials. They have similar effects but have different emphasis. Theoretically, they can be taken together, but they need to be combined appropriately according to your physical constitution and needs. Astragalus focuses on replenishing the qi of the spleen and lungs, solidifying the surface and diluting water, while ginseng replenishes vitality, promotes fluid production and calms the mind. When used together, it can enhance the effect of replenishing qi, but excessive amounts may cause internal heat or discomfort. It is important to pay attention to the incompatibility, applicable groups, usage and dosage, and avoid taking them blindly. The following is an analysis from the perspectives of efficacy, compatibility, precautions, etc.

Paragraph 2: Efficacy and Synergy

Astragalus is slightly warm in nature and returns to the spleen and lung meridian. It is good at improving immunity and relieving fatigue. Ginseng is slightly warm in nature and returns to the heart, spleen and lung meridian. It is good at replenishing qi and relieving stress, improving intelligence and refreshing the mind. Taking the two together can form a synergistic effect of "dual tonic of Qi and medicine", which is especially suitable for those with weak Qi, postoperative recovery or long-term fatigue. For example, "Compendium of Materia Medica" records that ginseng "treats all deficiency syndromes in men and women", while "Shen Nong's Materia Medica" calls astragalus "the best tonic", and its combination can take into account both short-term care and long-term strengthening. However, it should be noted that people with damp-heat constitution or yin deficiency and strong fire should use it with caution to avoid aggravating internal heat.

Section 3: Compatibility methods and classic prescriptions

There are precedents for the compatibility of the two in traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions. For example, the "Buzhong Yiqi Decoction" in "Treatise on Differentiating Internal and External Injuries" contains astragalus and ginseng and is used to regulate the depression of middle qi. Common modern combination methods include: 1) decoction: 15 grams of astragalus and 5 grams of ginseng slices are boiled over a slow fire; 2) tea substitute: sliced ​​and brewed with boiling water; 3) patent medicine preparations: such as Beijing Tongrentang's "Ginseng Qi Granules". It is recommended to adjust the proportion under the guidance of a doctor. For example, those who are prone to internal heat can reduce the amount of ginseng and use Ophiopogon japonicus to neutralize it.

Paragraph 4: Precautions and Taboos

There are three things you need to be careful about when using the same server: 1)dose control, daily ginseng should not exceed 3 grams (health care amount), and astragalus should not exceed 30 grams; 2)Taking time, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach in the morning to facilitate absorption and avoid drinking it before going to bed to affect sleep; 3)Taboo groups, it is forbidden for patients with high blood pressure, pregnant women, and those with colds and fever. In addition, eating it with radish and strong tea may reduce the efficacy of the medicine. Common products on the market are as follows:

Paragraph 5: Summary of recommendations

Taken together, taking astragalus and ginseng together has theoretical foundation and practical value, but it needs to follow the principle of "syndrome differentiation and treatment". For daily health care of healthy people, it is recommended to choose products with the same source of medicine and food (such as Shenqi Chicken Soup). People with sub-healthy conditions can use patent medicine preparations, and severe qi deficiency requires TCM syndrome differentiation formulas. Remember that "supplementation is not as effective as remediation", and only by combining it with moderate exercise can the effect of the medicine be better exerted. Quoting the 2020 edition of the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia", the compatibility of traditional Chinese medicines should be in an orderly manner, and avoid piling up precious medicinal materials.

Quote sources:
1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" Li Shizhen (Ming Dynasty)
2. "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 Edition·National Pharmacopoeia Commission
3. Beijing Tongrentang official website product description
4. Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Group Astragalus Shengmai Drink Instructions