Astragalus (Huang Qi) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herb known for its effects and functions, including tonifying qi and raising yang, consolidating the exterior to stop sweating, promoting diuresis to reduce edema, relieving stagnation and unblocking bi syndrome, and promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration. Certain precautions should be noted, such as avoiding radishes and seaweed during use, and contraindications for patients with excess pathogenic factors on the exterior, persistent heat-toxin after ulceration, or early-stage sores and ulcers.

Effects and Functions of Huang Qi

1. Tonifying Qi and Raising Yang

This herb tonifies qi and raises yang. It can be used under medical guidance to address qi deficiency with fatigue or sinking of the middle qi.

2. Consolidating the Exterior to Stop Sweating

Huang Qi consolidates the exterior and stops sweating. It can be prescribed by a physician for spontaneous sweating due to exterior deficiency.

3. Promoting Diuresis to Reduce Edema

With its ability to promote water movement and reduce swelling, Huang Qi is typically used under medical supervision for edema caused by qi deficiency.

4. Relieving Stagnation and Unblocking Bi Syndrome

For conditions such as hemiplegia or numbness and pain due to bi syndrome, Huang Qi can be used as directed by a physician to relieve stagnation and unblock obstructions.

5. Promoting Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration

In cases of chronic ulcers that fail to heal or carbuncles that are difficult to rupture, Huang Qi facilitates wound convergence and tissue regeneration, helping to alleviate discomfort.

Precautions for Huang Qi Use

1. Avoid Radishes

When using Huang Qi, it is advisable to avoid consuming radishes, as their qi-descending property may counteract Huang Qi’s therapeutic effects.

2. Avoid Seaweed

Seaweed, being strongly alkaline, should generally not be consumed with Huang Qi, as it may interfere with the herb’s efficacy.

3. Contraindicated in Excess Pathogenic Factors on the Exterior

Patients with exuberant pathogenic factors on the exterior should avoid Huang Qi, as it may exacerbate their condition.

4. Contraindicated in Persistent Heat-Toxin After Ulceration

If heat-toxin remains intense after the rupture of carbuncles or ulcers, Huang Qi should not be taken, as it could worsen symptoms.

5. Contraindicated in Early-Stage Sores and Ulcers

Huang Qi should not be used at the initial stage of sores and ulcers, as it may aggravate the condition.

Huang Qi should be used strictly under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner, adhering to these precautions to ensure safety and efficacy.