Huáng Qí (黄芪) — Astragalus Root
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Key formulas
- Modern research
- Cautions and contraindications
- Treatment at my clinic
1. Overview
Huáng Qí (黄芪) — Astragalus membranaceus — is known in English as Astragalus root / Milk vetch root. It belongs to the category of Qi tonics in the Chinese Materia Medica and is one of the most important and widely prescribed herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is used in Chinese herbal medicine both as a component of classical herbal formulas and as a significant individual herb in tailored prescriptions.
I prescribe Huáng Qí as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan — independently tested to the highest international quality and safety standards. Herbs are never prescribed individually outside a properly balanced formula; they are always combined with other herbs selected to match the patient’s individual TCM pattern. Online consultations are available for patients who cannot attend my clinic in person.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Huáng Qí |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 黄芪 |
| Latin name | Astragalus membranaceus |
| English name | Astragalus root / Milk vetch root |
| Nature | Warm |
| Flavour | Sweet |
| Channels entered | Lung, Spleen |
| Category | Qi tonics |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Tonifies Spleen and Lung Qi
- Raises the clear Yang Qi and lifts prolapse
- Consolidates the Exterior and stops sweating
- Promotes urination and reduces oedema
- Promotes tissue regeneration and discharge of pus
- Tonifies Wei Qi and strengthens immune defence
Indications
- Fatigue, shortness of breath and poor appetite from Spleen Qi deficiency
- Recurrent colds and susceptibility to infection from Wei Qi deficiency
- Spontaneous sweating and night sweats
- Prolapse of organs including uterine and rectal prolapse
- Oedema and difficulty urinating
- Non-healing ulcers and sores
- Numbness and paralysis from Qi and Blood deficiency
- Fertility support — strengthens the uterine environment and raises Yang
4. Key formulas containing Huáng Qí
Huáng Qí is an ingredient in many classical formulas. The following are among the most important:
See the full Chinese herbal medicine formula directory for detailed information on all 70 classical formulas.
5. Modern research
Astragalus has been the subject of extensive modern research confirming its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties. Key bioactive constituents include astragalosides (particularly astragaloside IV), polysaccharides and flavonoids. Research has demonstrated that astragalus polysaccharides enhance T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell activity, increase interferon production and support the function of the bone marrow. Astragaloside IV has been shown to activate telomerase and protect against cellular ageing. Clinical trials confirm benefits in chronic fatigue, recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, diabetic nephropathy and as an adjunct in cancer care. Research also supports its use in male and female fertility, with evidence for improving sperm quality and uterine blood flow.
6. Cautions and contraindications
Avoid in the early stages of acute infection (Cold or Heat exterior patterns) as it consolidates the Exterior and may trap the pathogen. Use with caution in conditions of Yin deficiency with Empty Heat or excess Heat patterns. High doses may cause digestive discomfort.
Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). Never self-prescribe or self-administer Chinese herbs without professional guidance. Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a member of the RCHM and the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Huáng Qí as part of tailored herbal formulas for a range of conditions including Chronic fatigue syndrome, Fertility, Low sperm count, Allergies. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment and adjusted throughout treatment as the pattern responds.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available for patients throughout the UK and internationally, with herbs dispensed by post. Visit the prices page for consultation fees.
Return to the Chinese herb directory or the Chinese herbal medicine main page.
