What combinations of herbs can be used with Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) to replenish both Yin and Yang?
Jan 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Cistanche can be combined with Lycium barbarum (goji berries), ginseng, Chinese yam, Cornus officinalis, and Polygonatum sibiricum to achieve simultaneous nourishment of both Yin and Yang. Goji berries have functions of nourishing the liver and kidneys, improving vision, and moistening the lungs. When used together with Cistanche, they can enhance the effect of nourishing the liver and kidneys, while balancing the warm and hot nature of Cistanche, thereby achieving the goal of harmonizing Yin and Yang. If combination use of Cistanche is required, it should be used properly under the guidance of a physician.
Generally, Cistanche can be combined with Lycium barbarum (Goji berry), Ginseng, Chinese yam, Cornus officinalis, and Polygonatum sibiricum (Yellow Solomon's seal) to achieve dual nourishment of both yin and yang. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Goji berry: Goji berry has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, improving vision, and moistening the lungs. When combined with Cistanche, it enhances the nourishing effect on the liver and kidneys, while balancing the warming nature of Cistanche, thus achieving harmony between yin and yang.
2. Ginseng: Ginseng is effective for greatly replenishing primary qi, strengthening the spleen, and benefiting the lungs. When used together with Cistanche, it enhances kidney-tonifying effects and is particularly suitable for patients with kidney-yang deficiency.
3. Chinese yam: Chinese yam functions to strengthen the spleen, nourish the stomach, nourish the kidneys, and consolidate essence. When used together with Cistanche, it enhances the overall tonic effect and helps improve symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees and premature ejaculation caused by kidney deficiency.
4. Cornus officinalis: Cornus officinalis has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, and astringing essence to prevent its loss. When used together with Cistanche, it complements and enhances the regulation of yin-yang balance and is suitable for treating various symptoms caused by kidney deficiency.
5. Polygonatum sibiricum: Polygonatum sibiricum has the effects of nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, strengthening the spleen and enriching blood, and nourishing the kidneys to replenish essence. When used together with Cistanche, it helps regulate yin-yang balance, enhances immunity, and improves the body's resistance.
If you plan to use Cistanche in combination with other herbs, you should do so under the guidance of a physician to ensure proper usage and avoid blind combinations. During use, maintain a light diet and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits to maximize the therapeutic effects.
