How to Take Sanqi Powder

Notoginseng powder is a processed product derived from the rhizomes of the *Panax notoginseng* plant, specifically ground from its main root. It is warm in nature, sweet and slightly bitter in taste, and enters the Liver, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians. Not only does it enhance immune function and delay aging, but it also improves memory, alleviates fatigue, and demonstrates notable preventive effects against tumors. So, what are the recommended methods for taking notoginseng powder? The following section addresses this question.

Methods of Taking Notoginseng Powder

1. Direct Oral Administration

Direct oral administration is a common method—often referred to as “raw consumption” of notoginseng powder. It is generally recommended to mix the powder with lukewarm water (approximately 30°C) or warm milk. If the taste proves excessively bitter, a small amount of honey, soy milk, or sweetened milk may be added to improve palatability. However, individuals with cold extremities or a constitutionally cold body type may take notoginseng powder long-term. Conversely, those with yin-deficiency or damp-heat constitutions should avoid prolonged use.

2. Incorporation into Medicinal Cuisine

Notoginseng powder can be incorporated into medicinal dishes such as chicken stewed with notoginseng or herbal soups, cooked thoroughly via steaming or boiling before being consumed with meals. Cooked notoginseng powder exerts blood-nourishing and blood-activating effects, strengthens the constitution in cases of deficiency, and stimulates appetite. It is particularly effective for conditions including neurasthenia, excessive fatigue, hemorrhage, and anemia. Nevertheless, prolonged intake is not advised, as it may induce “excess heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to symptoms such as sore throat, acne, or constipation).

Additional Information: Therapeutic Effects of Notoginseng Powder

1. Promotes Blood Stasis Resolution and Hemostasis

Notoginseng powder is highly effective for postpartum hemorrhage and traumatic bleeding. When taken orally, it should be mixed with warm water. Patients suffering from wind-cold-type common cold should avoid using notoginseng powder. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before initiating treatment—self-medication is strongly discouraged. Notoginseng contains total notoginseng saponins, which promote hepatocyte proliferation and prevent liver fibrosis and microvascular lesions caused by hepatic ischemia. Additionally, these saponins protect the liver from chemical injury.

2. Enhances Immune Function

Notoginseng powder contains notoginseng polysaccharides, total notoginseng saponins, and amino acids. Notoginseng polysaccharides enhance macrophage activity; total saponins elevate total white blood cell count and lymphocyte percentage in peripheral blood; and amino acids—essential nutrients—facilitate synthesis of immunoglobulins.

3. Prevents Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases

The total saponins in notoginseng powder effectively dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, improve microcirculation, increase blood flow, and prevent atherosclerosis. Consequently, it offers significant preventive and therapeutic benefits for various cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders. Moreover, notoginseng powder exhibits bidirectional regulation of blood glucose levels and helps manage hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia.

The above outlines the primary methods for consuming notoginseng powder. We hope this information proves helpful to you.