Chinese medicine to replenish qi and blood “first” recipe, as long as the two medicines, so that you are full of spirit, radiant!

In the long history of traditional Chinese medicine, it is common to encounter combinations of two or more medicinal herbs to form a prescription. Such combinations often lead to more comprehensive effects, and the results are often satisfactory. When only two herbs are combined to achieve optimal efficacy, it is often referred to as a “mandarin duck pairing”. These combinations are not only effective but also reduce the cost of medicinal materials, easing the burden on the body’s metabolism, earning them the title of “excellent prescriptions.”

Today, let’s explore the combination of two herbs, a star combination for tonifying qi and blood—Astragalus (Huang Qi) and Chinese Angelica (Dang Gui). Their combination has a long history of application, most notably in the famous prescription known as “Huang Qi Dang Gui Decoction.” This formula was invented by Li Dongyuan, one of the four great masters of the Jin and Yuan dynasties. He was also the founder of the theory of spleen and stomach, specializing in the treatment of various diseases related to these organs, emphasizing their central role in overall health. He even wrote a book titled “Spleen and Stomach Theory” to expound his views.

According to the theory of internal organs in traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach belong to the earth element and play a crucial role in transforming and producing qi and blood. Li Dongyuan invented this classic prescription that tonifies both qi and blood, which has been handed down to this day. Although this formula consists of only two herbs, its simplicity carries profound wisdom.

Let’s start by discussing Astragalus. Li Dongyuan’s preference for Astragalus originated from his master Zhang Yuansu, who believed that Astragalus had many benefits, especially its ability to strengthen the spleen and stomach, invigorate blood production, and prominently supplement deficiencies, particularly beneficial for replenishing vital energy. To say it is the top choice for tonifying qi is not an exaggeration. At this point, some might interject: “Are you disregarding ginseng?” Not at all. Ginseng, well-known for its ability to tonify vital energy and rescue collapse, is potent and may cause nosebleeds or other side effects in many people. Additionally, high-quality ginseng is scarce and expensive, making it less accessible to the general public.

In contrast, Astragalus is mild in its tonifying nature, making it suitable for those with weak spleen and stomach function. Its gentle properties make it less likely to cause imbalances due to excessive tonification. Moreover, Astragalus is more affordable, making it a widely accessible medicine. It is truly a herb with upright characteristics. Ancient practitioners continuously utilized Astragalus, and today it is a commonly used herb for health maintenance. For instance, teachers who spend extended periods lecturing, depleting their lung qi, causing hoarseness, shortness of breath, and dizziness, are recommended to use Astragalus tea. It can naturally restore a resonant and unceasing voice.

Given its gentle nature, Astragalus has a broad application. It is suitable for individuals experiencing weakness in speech and mobility, shortness of breath after climbing stairs, or conditions where organ prolapse occurs due to qi descent. It is also useful for those with a tendency to water retention and edema due to its diuretic properties. Additionally, Astragalus, rich in trace elements, possesses anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, helping regulate the immune system. People prone to recurrent colds or nasal inflammation can benefit from its regular use.

Having discussed Astragalus, let’s turn our attention to its excellent partner—Chinese Angelica, commonly known as Dang Gui. The names of Chinese herbs often carry poetic meanings. One romantic interpretation is that, just as ancient people married to have children, Dang Gui is a good remedy for women’s health. The name “Dang Gui” conveys the idea of anticipating the return of a loved one, resonating with the Tang Dynasty poem: “Good sesame seeds are sown, but no one sows them; It is precisely the time to return, yet he does not return.”

Many are familiar with Dang Gui’s role in nourishing the blood, commonly used in gynecological treatments. However, what some may not know is that it also has a blood-invigorating effect. Comparing it to another blood-nourishing star, gelatin (a product derived from donkey skin), it is well-known that gelatin is rich and may be difficult to digest for those with weak spleen and stomach function, potentially leading to excessive heat. Dang Gui, on the other hand, excels not only in nourishing blood but also in invigorating it. If blood is abundant but not active, it is akin to stagnant water, offering no benefits to the body. The blood-nourishing and blood-invigorating effects of Dang Gui are particularly effective for individuals with blood deficiency and stasis, such as women with scanty menstrual flow, blood clots, and dark-colored menstrual blood.

As evident, the invention of the Huang Qi Dang Gui Decoction is exceptionally wise. It strikes a balance, neither leaning to one extreme nor the other. Some may ask: “Can I use only one of these herbs to tonify either qi or blood?” This is strongly discouraged. Qi and blood are interrelated and mutually dependent; emphasizing one over the other often yields less pronounced results. For instance, even if there is an abundance of blood, it needs qi to circulate throughout the body. Without sufficient qi, it merely becomes stagnant blood. Additionally, qi relies on blood for guidance, and blood needs qi for restraint. The secret of tonifying both qi and blood lies in this mutual interdependence—a testament to the wisdom behind the Huang Qi Dang Gui Decoction!

For most individuals, a general dosage is around 30g of Astragalus and 6g of Chinese Angelica. Those with blood deficiency usually need to take it regularly for about three weeks, while those with severe blood deficiency may need to continue for up to a hundred days to replenish the deficient blood. If discomfort arises during the course, especially symptoms of excessive heat, it should be discontinued immediately.

Note: The above information is for reference only. Please take it under the guidance of a physician.